Workfit for the summer - asssessment centres

WORK FIT 2012PART 4 - ASSESSMENT CENTRES

COMPETITION MAKES US BETTER

WORK FIT 2012 - PART 4: ASSESSMENT CENTRES WWW.YOLKRECRUITMENT.COM

WHAT ARE THEY USED FOR?It is becoming increasingly more common for companies to run a series of extended selection procedures, including assessment centres. They are usually part of the initial selection process and successful candidates progress to the first interview stage.

Why are companies choosing to use assessment centres?Basically they get to see what you can do rather than what you say you can do. It also provides you with the opportunity to learn about the company and get a taster for what the position would involve.


DIFFERENT TYPES OF ASSESSMENT CENTRESSocial/informal eventsWhere you meet a variety of people, including other candidates, the assessors, recent graduates and senior management. It provides a great opportunity for you to find out about the organisation and to ask more questions. Although these events seem informal, remember to remain professional and act in a positive manner throughout.

Information sessionsWhich provide more detail about the organisation and the roles available. The information provided to you is likely to be more up-to-date than your own internet research. Tests and exercisesDesigned to reveal your potential and test you. Assessors at assessment centres measure you against a set of competencies and each exercise is designed to assess one or more of these areas.


WHAT PREPARATION CAN YOU DO?As the days vary so greatly depending on the organisation it can be difficult to prepare for them but the same basic rules apply as per any interview situation.Make sure you research the company as you will be usually quizzed on this.Be prepared to have to speak in front of a group of strangers - if you don’t do this often it can be quite difficult so try practising with friends or family.


WHAT TO DO ON THE DAY?• Be there with plenty of time to spare and start

talking to the other candidates before the assessment starts - this will make the day a lot easier for you.

• Listen carefully to the instructions given to you at the start of the day and always read the information you are given thoroughly

• You are not expected to be good at every exercise – an assessment centre gives you the chance to show your strengths in different work based scenarios

• When presented with a group exercise getting the answer correct is not as important as how you conduct yourself.

• Your level of motivation will be assessed throughout the day so ensure you remain focused and on it!


ETIQUETTE & TIPS• Treat the other candidates with respect,

yes you are competing against each other but doesn’t give you the excuse to be rude.

• Get stuck in - they can’t assess your abilities if you don’t show them off.

• Don’t be afraid to disagree with others but do in a professional and constructive manner.

• Think outside the box - some of the challenges will involve you to be a little creative with your solutions.

• Relax and be yourself - this can be difficult when you are being constantly watched but you don’t want to come across uptight and wary.

WORK FIT 2012 - PART 2: CV WRITING WWW.YOLKRECRUITMENT.COM

Download Part 1FINDING VACANCIESwww.yolkrecruitment.com/workfit/

Yolk Recruitment6-7 St John StreetCardiff CF10 1GJ

[email protected]

Workfit for the summer - asssessment centres

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