Job seeking as a mature graduate - live discussion 1-3pm today http://t.co/7XKPfE06 via @guardian

Posted on: 16/05/2012 11:05.
Follow us @UniBradCareers.

What will happen at the Assessment Centre?

It would be common for you to arrive at the Assessment Centre location ready to start work, particularly if it’s a half day event i.e. you might be pitched straight in, after a brief introduction, to a group exercise or even a psychometric test.  The programme, as well as the number of activities you will be participating in, will obviously vary from company to company.  If it’s a longer event (e.g. 2 days) you might have an easy first evening with an employer presentation and a chance to mix informally with company managers and recent graduates.  Usually there is information sent in advance so you should have prior warning – but if in doubt, be ready for anything!

Although programmes vary, our advice is that you may encounter any combination of activities detailed in the next section.  Many of them will be strictly timed so you will need to keep an eye on the clock.  Don't worry, though, you won't have to do all of them – probably just up to four or five.

The main thing to remember is that the activities are meant to test your competencies in the various skills required for the role (specific) or company (generic).  Competency is about the way we do things or “behaviours” we use.  If you are successful at ‘Team Working’, you will demonstrate positive behaviours that will contribute to the effectiveness of the team-working situation.  For example, an effective team worker will demonstrate or display characteristics such as communicating openly with colleagues, sharing information, supporting one another and continuously displaying good team spirit.

Competencies describe these behaviours and are the result of a mixture of skills, abilities and knowledge.  It is therefore important for you to know and understand the definition of each of the competencies required and the effective behavioural characteristics related to each competency, as you will be assessed and observed on these at the Assessment Centres.  Some jobs may not provide details of the competencies but understanding the job role and responsibilities may give you an indication as to what competencies are required.

Back to Assessment Centres index