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Posted on: 16/05/2012 11:05.
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Practicalities – How do I know what to expect?

Where are Assessment Centres held?

The setting for your Assessment Centre will normally be a company training centre or a hotel, so that there are comfortable surroundings, a variety of rooms for the activities and peace and quiet away from the demands of the normal working environment.

However, depending on the job you applied for, you may be asked to attend an Assessment Centre at the most relevant location (e.g. at the local retail store for graduate trainees in retail management).

How long is the Assessment Centre?

Assessment Centres are focused events lasting from a short session of up to 3 hours to 2 full days.  Some could be longer!

How many candidates are invited?

Many organisations with a large number of graduate vacancies to fill will have cut down their applicants to a much smaller number than the original total that applied.  Typically, you will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre with up to about 30 other candidates, but you may be divided up into small groups for particular exercises.

Some employers only invite a very small number to their Assessment Centre on each occasion, for instance 8 or 9 candidates and will have a whole series of different dates on which their Assessment Centres are running.

What do I wear?

Unless told otherwise, dress as you would if you were attending an interview.  Obviously, if you have an overnight stay, you would take a change of shirt etc. Some organisations, e.g. the armed forces and the police may have physical/outdoor exercises and will tell you what to bring with you.  Make sure you read your joining instructions carefully.

How do I behave during “social events”?

From the moment that you report to reception until you leave, you will be under scrutiny as part of the selection procedure – therefore the way you behave at all times is important, so act naturally but be aware of the need for good manners, polite behaviour and to act in a pleasant and friendly way towards other candidates and company personnel.

You will be expected to cope with general socialising with other candidates as well as with management and you are likely to be observed at meal times and when “relaxing” in the bar (generally referred to as “social events”) and after, or in-between activities.  Assessors sometimes ask for the opinions of other company personnel who have met you!

If alcohol is available, don’t overdo it, otherwise you may regret it the next day and your excesses will probably have been noticed!

Do they pay travelling expenses?

The payment of travelling expenses is normally mentioned in the letter/email sent inviting you for the Assessment Centre.  Make sure you keep receipts as generally expenses are paid on production of receipts. 

Some organisations impose a spending limit i.e. second class rail or the cost of petrol plus hotel accommodation of up to £80.  If expenses are not covered, it is perfectly acceptable to make enquiries!

What if I have a disability?

If you have a disability, you can make the employer aware of any needs you have so that appropriate adjustments can be made.  These could include extra time given to candidates with dyslexia to complete activities, adjustments to the physical environment, specialist equipment, materials in alternative formats etc.

Contact the recruiter as soon as possible to discuss your individual requirements.

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