Never been to an assessment centre before? Sounds pretty scary, right?
Well don’t worry, here are some tips to advise you on how to handle it and to help you relax during the process.
Arrive in plenty of time
It sounds so obvious. However, have you thought of all the mitigating circumstances that could occur? I once pre-booked a ticket to London and realises when I was at the station that I had left my railcard at home. I went back to get it, and on the way someone drove into my car (you’d think the universe was trying to tell me something). Luckily, because I had booked such an early train, and had ensured that the two subsequent trains would still get me there on time, it wasn’t a problem. You can always kill time, but it’s very difficult recover from arriving late.
Be polite to everyone you meet
The selection process doesn’t start with the first question and end with the last. You are being assessed from the point you enter the building. As such, don’t be dismissive or rude to anyone. Assume that the person who is assessing your ability throughout the day is going to ask everyone you have met what they think of you.
Put yourself forward
When asked to do something, be the first to offer. You will seem keen and confident, and it will make you stand out. This doesn’t just count for activities: I went to an assessment centre where the person welcoming us told us to go through to the next room, and no one else moved. Be energetic and enthusiastic, and be the first person into that room (it was just biscuits on the other side of the door, so my enthusiasm paid off).
Know when to hold back
However, be careful not to seem arrogant by talking over people and trying to steal the limelight. You will be assessed on your ability to work well in a team as well as your individual capabilities, so demonstrate that you know when to let someone else make a suggestion.
Make friends
You will often be with other applicants. Communicate with them, and don’t treat them like your competition. Be friendly, as those examining you will probably be assessing your ability to quickly make connections with your team and work well with others.
Pace yourself
Assessment centres are often a whole working day. As a university student with only seven hours of lectures a week this can be a bit of a shock, so don’t go all out in the first few sessions, as you need to perform well throughout the whole day. Remember that they are looking for someone to work 9-5 most days of the year, so you can’t burn out in the middle of the day.
Enjoy it!
I get incredibly nervous before assessment centres and interviews, and the most useful advice I’ve been given is just to enjoy it. It sounds easier said than done, but if you tell yourself to have fun, the chances are that you will. Finally, if you’re having fun, then you will probably come across as the positive, confident individual that the company is trying to find.
What are your experiences and tips with assessment centres? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo: Neil Conway / Flickr
I’m an Editorial Manager with an English Literature degree from Warwick University. I love writing about travel, careers, and vegan baking. For more info and to get in contact about freelance writing opportunities, visit http://www.samanthahopps.co.uk/
Leave a Reply