Organisations select
employees in a number of different ways. They will all be looking
for someone who has the skills (competencies), abilities and
personal qualities to do the job well but the method of selection
used will vary from perhaps a single interview to an extended form
of assessment generally known as an Assessment Centre.
Assessment Centres may last
one or two days, sometimes longer. They are considered a fairer and
more accurate way of choosing candidates because they offer an
opportunity for a larger number of selectors to assess a greater
range of job-related competencies over a longer period of time.
Some assessors are willing to provide feedback on your performance, so if you are
unsuccessful, it is useful to request feedback in order that you
can improve your performance at future assessment centres.
Assessment Centres usually comprise:
- Social events, eg lunch or dinner with other candidates, recent
graduates and more senior management. This is an opportunity to
find out more about the organisation in an informal setting, and
also to display your interpersonal skills and present a positive
image.
- Information sessions to update you on the organisation,
its activities and job opportunities. Take advantage of the social events and information
sessions to make sure you are fully briefed on the organisation and
the job roles prior to your interview.
Updated: 12/9/2010 By:
John McMenamin