Standing out in assessment centers

Employers are now turning to assessment centers to separate the best from the best.

Assessment centers are beginning to take center stage in the recruitment process, particularly in large-scale graduate recruitment, as they allow employers to identify traits that are not immediately visible in CVs.

An assessment center is a series of exercises, tests and interviews that are designed to determine the suitability of candidates for various positions within an organization. Candidates are assessed on their ability to demonstrate a variety of work-related skills and personality traits through various individual and group exercises.

The following are some common tests that you should be familiar with.

Psychometric tests
Similar to IQ tests, psychometric tests are multiple-choice and taken on paper or via computer. They include aptitude or ability tests that examine your analytical, mathematical, language and job-related skills, and personality tests that evaluate your character and work style.

Written test
Written tests examine the candidate’s ability to articulate and present their opinions in written form. Besides language and communication skills, you will also be tested on your critical thinking, creativity and time management skills.

In-tray exercise
You will be given a tray full of documents or a list of tasks that you must arrange by priority, predict the problems that may arise and provide solutions for them. Apart from that, you will also need to elaborate on the chosen course of action, eg why you prioritized one task over another. This exercise tests your time management and organizational skills.

Case study analysis
This exercise tests your comprehension, critical thinking and problem solving skills. You will be given a short passage of a real or fictional business situation, followed by a few questions to answer. There are usually no correct answers but you must be prepared to justify your answers with logical reasons and be able to identify the lessons and opportunities, make informed predictions and recommend solutions.

Presentation
To test your public speaking, communication and language skills, you will be given a topic and a short time to prepare. The presentation can vary from a two-minute self-introduction to a 15-minute campaign strategy presentation including PowerPoint slides. You will present in front of a panel of judges or other candidates, either on your own or in a group.

Group discussion
Candidates will be divided into groups. Each group will be given a topic to discuss and to come up with a conclusion or a solution within a limited time. During the discussion, you will be observed by assessors who will rate you in various areas ranging from interpersonal, problem-solving and communication skills to leadership potential to etiquette and body language. This is often combined with the case study.

Role play
To test your adaptability and how you interact with others in stressful work-related situations, you will be given a scenario and a role to play. Usually, you will be placed in a simulated environment with actors or simply act out a scene with the assessor.

Interview
Assessment center interviews tend to be more technical and incisive than regular interviews. Prepare to be drilled on your area of study as well as your knowledge of current affairs, the company and the industry. For more tips on preparing for interviews, turn to page x.

Preparation advice Assessment centers can be daunting – if you go unprepared. Conquer your fear with these preparation tips. Be yourself Be aware of your own personality traits; highlight your best qualities without straying too far from your usual self or forcing yourself to become someone you are not. Remember that these exercises are designed to identify your unique characteristics. Take a test drive Trial runs will give you an idea of what to expect, so take advantage of the sample tests that are available on the Career Center website and the Internet. With practice, you can be less nervous and perform optimally during the real thing. Feed your brain In addition to doing research on the organization and reading up on current affairs, make sure to have a good night’s rest and a light meal before heading off to the assessment center to keep your mind clear.

Every organization has its own idea of what the perfect candidate is like, so don’t beat yourself up if you do not make the final cut. Being invited to an assessment center is a privilege, so go for it with an open mind and positive attitude and enjoy the experience.

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