Graduate recruiters use Assessment Centres to assess a large number of candidates together and are usually one of the final steps in the recruitment process.

Lasting anything from an afternoon to several days, you'll be invited to participate in a wide range of individual and group activities and tasks to help employers get a sense of whether you'd be a good fit for the role. These can be in person and even virtual. You can absolutely handle these with preparation; here are some of the things you can expect, and some top tips:

Up your game

Read everything they send you, so you know exactly what to expect. You should be prepared for anything you're presented with, make sure you ask for any reasonable adjustments if you have a disability. Remember, you'll be assessed from when you get there to when you leave.

Psychometric assessments: Practice psychometric tests, there may be additional tests on the day.

Build your commercial awareness: Research the employer again in advance, check annual reports, the news, show you have a clear idea of what is impacting their business and their customers.

Dress to impress: You want to present your best self so make sure you look comfortable and dress professionally, as though you were attending an interview. This way you can't help but project confidence and positivity!

First impressions are sticky: Remember to smile, practice introducing yourself, work on your handshake- no one likes a limp-fish or a bone-crusher handshake! Be aware of what your body language is communicating and be aware of other people's body language too.

Presentation skills: Assessors may ask you to give an individual or group presentation, get some practice in advance, keep to the time limit- and always pay attention when anyone else is presenting. Don't let yourself be distracted by watches or mobiles because this will be picked up on.

Group exercises: Assessors are not looking for the loudest voice in the room, they are looking at your social skills, your emotional intelligence, and how well you interact with others. Show them what you've got and make sure you contribute however you feel comfortable contributing and draw others into the conversation.

Case studies: Individually or in groups, you'll be given a work-related scenario, examine the brief, show your understanding of the issue and present back what the evidence shows and your solution.

Role play: These are to see how you deal with challenging situations and people.

Interviews: Schedule some mock interviews in advance, practice your interview technique and questions like What do you know about us? Show you really understand what the employer looks for in candidates, what their culture, values and mission are, and you'll shine.

Above all else - Be Yourself! - you will feel more authentic, more confident, and more engaged.

Suggested Reading

> The Student Room
> Assessment Centre
> How to prepare for an assessment centre
> Assessment Centre Advice

By Anna Gordon - Certified Business Coaching Psychologist ABP CBCP