Assessment centres
At assessment centres, employers will evaluate you based on the desired competencies, skills, and qualities essential to the advertised job.
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What to expect
Assessment centres involve activities in small groups of 6-8 candidates. These can include:
- group discussions
- written tests
- role play
- in-tray exercises
- presentations.
Your suitability for the job is assessed. Be ready for a few hours or a full-day session.
Preparation is key
- Read the invitations thoroughly to understand the schedule and expectations.
- Familiarise yourself with the job description and person specification to identify the sought-after competencies.
- Research the company, its competitors, and strategic aspects to impress with your knowledge.
- If unsure about the activities, reach out to the recruiter for clarification.
- Practice, practice, practice!
On the day
- Focus on demonstrating the desired competencies not outdoing other candidates.
- Plan your team approach, providing a structured framework for your tasks.
- Respect time frames and stay focused on the assigned task.
- Be a good listener, encourage others to contribute, and avoid dominating the discussion.
- Actively participate, ensuring your opinions and ideas are heard.
Read our guide on Preparing for assessment centres to kick-start your success on the day.
Visit Prospects: Assessment Centres for more information.
Further support
Find out about assessment centres, including activities and performance strategies, in our Assessment Centres LinkedIn Learning Pathway.
Resources
Useful websites
- Assessment Day - Run by a student who has taken several tests in the UK. Free and paid tests, interview questions, and discussion forum.
- Job Test Prep - Preparation for aptitude tests, personality tests, and interviews.