In addition to job interviews, employers are increasingly using assessment days as a way of selecting the very best candidates. So, if you have been invited to attend an assessment centre WELL DONE! It shows that you are a strong candidate and the employer would like to see more from you. Assessment centres can be challenging and rather than sitting face to face with an interviewer you are usually presented with a series of tasks which you complete with your fellow candidates. Typically, the interview team will sit back and observe how well (or badly) you cope with each challenge.
Generally, you can expect the following things to happen throughout the course of the day:
Short one-on-one interview
Role play in typical business scenario (relevant to the position you are applying for)
Short presentation
Time based challenge
Group activities
Psychometric tests – to give an understanding of your personality, aptitude and cognitive ability.
Prior to the assessment centre day the employer will usually contact you with a timetable and a list of things you are expected to bring. Take this as your first challenge – if the letter calls for a calculator do not turn up without one!
Regardless of the nature of the day you should always dress smartly (unless it is expressly written that you need to be in casual clothing). Be yourself and speak up without being domineering. Assessment days can be intimidating, but remember you have every right to be there. Sell yourself and Good Luck!
