Job interviews can be nerve wracking for even the most seasoned job hunter, but assessment centres are a whole different ball game.

They’re not as common as traditional, face-to-face job interviews, and sometimes spread over several days. Usually, however, they’re a day long evaluation – an assessment of your abilities to perform under several different conditions. According to Kent University, they’re one of the most accurate and reliable ways of assessing job candidates.

A unique aspect of testing job candidates in this way is the presence of other candidates. Not only are you expected to interview well and complete individual tasks efficiently, you’re also expected to demonstrate your ability to work well with others in a group environment. In this scenario, the trick is finding a balance between asserting your influence and allowing others to contribute as part of the team – all the while making progress against the task.

It may be that you’re also observed during your ‘down time’. Lunch breaks can be a great way of understanding how a candidate will interact socially, so don’t be surprised in your assessors are still lurking when you crack out the sandwiches. Be sociable, ask your peers where they’ve travelled from or what interested them about the job.

As with any interview situation, it’s important to prepare thoroughly. Make sure you know where you need to be and at what time, and be sure to pack everything you need the night before. It’s worth bringing a folder to hold your notepad and pens as well as any documents and agendas you’re required to bring.

So, since assessment centres are growing in popularity, we thought we’d put together an overview of what to expect, how to prepare, and how to aim for the best result possible. Check out our guide below:

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