Assessment centres

Assessment centres can take place in the company headquarters or in a training centre or hotel. Many larger companies hold assessment centres. Usually, these are held after the first round of interviews and before the final selection, but they can be used as an initial selection process.

You might be asked to complete or take part in some or all of the following;

Psychometric tests
Individual tasks
Group tasks
Presentations
Informal events

Psychometric tests

These are likely to be a mixture of diagrammatic, verbal, and numerical tests. It is important to keep calm and read the instructions carefully. Keep a close eye on the time.

You may also have to take a personality test. If so, do not try to guess what the employer wants. Simply answer the questions honestly. If you have researched the job sufficiently before applying, it is unlikely that the results of a personality test will show you to be an unsuitable candidate.

A lack of familiarity with aptitude tests can cause applicants to perform badly. It is a good idea to attempt some practice tests beforehand.

Individual tasks

These could include writing an essay or report, or undertaking an in-tray or e-tray exercise. These tasks have strict time limits and are designed to show how well you can work under pressure, delegate or prioritise. They are intended to reflect the true working situation of a manager.

Group tasks

A variety of exercises are used to see how you perform in a group. Examples include discussions, a role-play or even an activity such as building a bridge or tower.

Assessors will observe the whole group and make notes on how each person performs. They look for evidence of enthusiasm, original thought and the ability to explain ideas, negotiate and work effectively within a team.

You should be yourself and don't worry about taking the lead unless that is your natural style.

In such exercises the focus is usually not on whether or not you complete the task. The assessors are interested in your behaviour as a group and as individuals within the group.
group

Presentations

You may be asked to give a short talk on a chosen subject or an extended analysis of a current event. Practice delivering your presentation beforehand with a third party (i.e. a friend or family member). Book an appointment with a Careers Counsellor to review your presentation content or to have a practice run-through.

You should make use of audio-visual aids where appropriate. Make sure your presentation doesn’t overrun the allotted time. This will certainly count against you.

Informal events

You will probably attend social occasions such as lunch or dinner with managers and recent graduates who work for the company. Your conduct at these events may also form part of the assessment. Use the time wisely to ask sensible questions and make a good impression.