Assessment Centre Tips

Assessment Centres are not as common as one to one interviews, and we understand they can be intimidating and make you nervous. However, treat it as a chance to show your potential employer how much you want to work for them, how much of a team player you are and what you are capable of – and you will be guaranteed to leave the right impression! 

1. Get your mindset right. This is not a competition. Most companies use assessment centres because they are looking for multiple candidates and/or because it gives a different insight into candidate behaviour. If you enter an AC with the belief that you need ‘to win’, there is a good chance this will influence your behaviour in the group exercise and also social situations. It is better to think about being the best you can be. 

2. You are always being assessed 

3. Don’t let yourself down on the simple things. If we ask you to present yourself a certain way there is a reason for this, so ensure you read instructions thoroughly and pay attention to detail. 

The following should be taken on board; 

• Leave your house in plenty of time to arrive at least 10 -15 minutes early; 

• Ensure you are well groomed (from head to toe!) and you have considered the weather conditions; 

• We will always attach a link to the map and the address – make sure you have worked out how to get there in plenty of time; 

• Leave worries at the door – a postitive happy and open demeanour is the best way to enter any asessment centre or interview – ensure you always put your best foot forward! 

4. Plan each task. In the heat of the moment, it is easy to just launch in to a task. However, it is crucial that you take the time to read all relevant instructions. For example, don’t skip ahead if you haven’t established your clients needs and asked at least a few questions. 

5. Ensure the last impression is a postive one. There are a few things you can do to ensure you are perceived positively - 

• Most importantly, do not ‘over dominate’ the exercise; 

• Use your peer’s name when addressing them and invite the quieter participants to voice their opinion; 

• Express your own ideas and ask for feedback; 

• Finally, stand by the group’s ultimate decision/conclusion. Do not fall in to the trap of criticising other group members if faced with ‘apprentice’ style questions from the assessor. 

6. Do not let one bad exercise ruin your assessment. Confidence is crucial on an AC and a single exercise will not usually determine your success or failure. If you perform badly on one exercise you must pick yourself back up and move forward. 

7. Be positive. Over the course of the assessment you will have numerous conversations and will experience a range of emotions. It is important that you remain positive and that you express this. Don’t make the error of making any negative comments about the assessors, the AC, other delegates, current employer or an ex-boss.