FreshMinds

Be yourself (at your best)

Assessment centres tend to get the pulse racing. But at FreshMinds Talent we’ll make sure you get there calm, confident and very well-prepared.

What are they?

  • Assessment centres are part of the recruitment process used by many graduate employers
  • They let the employer see more of the real you – how you react to different scenarios, how you interact with other people
  • Lasting usually one day, or sometimes two, they are used to test a range of your skills in group and individual activities
  • Tasks can include group exercises, psychometric tests, case studies, presentations and interviews

The FreshMinds guide to excelling at assessment centres

Stay calm

  • Assessment centres use a number of different components, so if one doesn’t go completely to plan, don’t panic.
  • Being strong in most areas and under-achieving in one won’t rule you out
  • The assessors may still pass you with notes of areas for development

Ask questions

  • If you get the chance, talk to someone from the firm about their job
  • Find out how their role fits into the company Get a sense of what it is actually like to work there

Be enthusiastic

  • Show your potential employer through actions and words how much you want the job
  • Assessment centres are tiring, so get a good night’s sleep and keep your energy levels up through the day with the right food and drink
  • This could be your only chance to impress, so make the most of it

Be engaging

  • Employers look for candidates that they will enjoy working with
  • Use every opportunity to talk to people at the company and find out about their roles and the industry
  • If the assessors enjoy spending time with you, you’ll be one step ahead before the exercises even start

Be professional

  • The first impressions rule still applies, so dress smartly
  • You’ll be observed throughout the assessment centre, even when you think you’re not Relax, enjoy yourself but remember to be mature and professional throughout

Feel confident

  • Assessment centres usually take place after first round interviews So getting to one shows you’ve got something the employer likes Use that confidence to be yourself at your best