You are normally invited to a technical assessment centre for technology-based roles so that the potential employer can test your suitability to the job itself. This is normally the second or final stage of the selection process. The day itself should be beneficial and informative to you, providing an opportunity for genuine insight into working day life at the company.
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What to expect
The day itself could involve any mixture of the following and these activities will usually be based on real examples specific to the job role itself…
- Practical exercises
- Group exercises
- Aptitude and psychometric tests
- Interviews
- In-tray exercises
- Presentations
- Social events such as a networking lunch, drinks or dinner with prospective managers and colleagues
For more top tips on assessment centres, read Bright Network's guide.
What are they looking for?
There are a number of different skills that recruiters are looking for at these assessment centres, but the following tend to be the top ones as a rule.
- Key workplace skills
- Competency
- Ability to communicate
- Teamwork
- Problem solving abilities
- Task management
- Leadership
- Time management
- Ability to work under pressure
- Stamina
Our top tips for a positive day…
1. Preparation is key
Make sure you have everything that you need in advance. Read the on-the-day-requirements thoroughly and in advance of the day itself. Make sure you have all listed documentation and interview outfit is ready. Do your research and don’t ask questions that you can find out on their website.
2. You're being watched, all the time
Remember you are being assessed at all times – even when you are informally networking. Keep a professional demeanour at all times and maintain a positive attitude about the day and tasks at all times.
3. Focus
Focus on how you are presenting yourself and not on the other candidates. Remember, it is likely that different candidates will have different strengths to you, so focus on what you can achieve and try not to compare yourself to others.
4. Think
Think about the tasks/exercises given and decipher exactly what the task at hand is testing you on. Make sure you find a way to demonstrate the strengths they are testing you for in each task set.
5. Don't let self-doubt get the better of you
It is probable that you will do better in some tasks than others (as you excel in your personal strengths). Make sure that when you are at your most confident - you demonstrate it effectively.
6. Be both a team player and a leader
Remember tasks will be set to demonstrate both leadership and working as a team player on the day. Think about how you can demonstrate both on the day. Take charge, when you need to but remember to consider everyone’s opinions.
Now you know what to expect from the application process, browse graduate jobs in technology IT and software development. Take the first step towards your career.