What are Assessment Centres?

Assessment Centres tend to involve a day of structured selection tasks or activities organised by the employer (or outsourced to a specialised recruitment company) for job candidates to attend.  The whole session is dedicated towards evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, skills and qualities of individuals in front of a group of assessors. 

Importance of Assessment Centres

Each assessment will have specific criteria to be tested against.  A number of diffierent activities aim to highlight the overall capabilities and suitability of candidates towards the role.  It is hoped that an outstanding candidate will emerge, thereby making the process of recruitment less risky.

Remember assessment centres are not cheap and can be difficult to arrange.  Should you be invited to attend, it means that the company is seriously interested in you as a viable candidate.

During the assessment day 

Make sure you fully participate in all the activities no matter what it is.  Everyone has to do it!
Always maintain a professional approach & a positive attitude as everything will be noticed.
Try to be yourself, although be careful what you say & how you say it (you can talk yourself out of a job).

TYPES OF ASSESSMENT                                                                                                                 

1) Report Writing

Using information or a basic heading given to make recommendations in a brief report.

2) Group tasks

Doing something with a common goal - i.e. taking decisions, strategy, presentation, etc.

3) Role plays

Participating in a group discussion by performing the role of a particular person, etc.

4) Presentations

Structuring solutions / recommendations / demonstrating knowledge regarding a particular
brief, topic or business issue.  See article:   10 Ways To Improve Presentation Effectiveness

5) Psychometic Tests

Aptitude Tests and Personality Questionnaires (more information above).

6) In-tray exercises

A test designed to assess abilities to prioritise tasks and manage a workload.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN GROUP SESSIONS                                                                            

1) Giving ideas

Be forthcoming with new ideas - this will show your creative and forward-thinking side.

2) Working with the group

Allowing other group members to contribute and share ideas shows an ability to listen, co-operate and engage with others.  This is essential for effective group-working.

3) Remain foused

Make sure the group understands the tasks & its objectives.   It is essential for someone to ensure the group stick to the task, maintain / review progress & decide on next steps, etc.

4) Managing time effectively

It is important to keep track of time for each section so that the task is completed successfully. 
An ability to manage your time effectively & plan is what employers look for.

5) Be prepared to compromise

It is a group task so there has to be a group concensus at the end.  Remember, it is only a group exercise so be prepared to negotiate when putting forward points.  Do not be too competitive! 


                                               

            

Understanding job interview assessments will help you beat the competition! - An Overview.