An Assessment Centre is a particular method that many larger employers use during recruitment and selection.
Students and graduates invited to an Assessment Centre will be required to complete a number of activities over a set period of time (half day, full day or occasionally over 2 days).
Usually an assessment centre is made up of some or all of the following:
Psychometric tests
Psychometric tests (also known as aptitude tests) are specifically designed to assess your logical reasoning or performance for a given measure.
There are a range of different test types, as listed above, to assess different qualities.
In-tray exercises
Most jobs now have a significant element of managing information and making decisions.
The in-tray and e-tray exercise is designed to test how you manage and understand information and how you make decisions based on information presented.
Group exercises
Group exercises are commonly used tasks in Assessment Centres.
Employers use them assess your communication, problem solving and teamwork skills. It is important that you focus on the task and work together with group colleagues to come to the best outcome for that particular task.
Presentations
As part of many assessment centres you will be required to deliver a presentation.
Sometimes you will know the topic in advance but more often you will be given a topic/task to present on at the Assessment Centre.
Interview
Interview will almost always form part of an assessment centre and as always you will need to prepare fully to give yourself the best possible chance.
Body language, appearance and preparation of potential answers are essential considerations.
Learn more about these exercises on the Prospects Graduate Careers site.