Graduate Assessment Centres!

Published 11 May 2011 by Rena

Our friends at Telstra have been giving some excellent advice. Read on to find out what Bordo has to say about Assessment Centres!

As we move through into the selection process, I thought it would be appropriate to blog on everyone’s favourite pastime – assessment centres. If you are shortlisted you will be invited to a Telstra assessment centre, and I am sure you will ask yourself all the common questions, what will it consist of? What should I wear? What should I take with me?

Whilst the process can be intensive and commonly viewed as ‘stressful’ by graduates, it does provide a great opportunity to demonstrate your abilities in a group environment. Assessment centres also enable graduates to obtain a practical idea of what the employer expects from staff, and opportunities to network with other graduates on the day. They can also be fun!!

Here are a few tips for you to consider:-

• Relax, everyone is nervous. A little bit of nerves is good.
• Show you are actively listening to everyone else by nodding, smiling and making eye contact.
• It is what you say not how much you say that counts.
• Don’t assume shy or quiet members have nothing to contribute. Encourage everyone to participate they just might have the answers the team needs.
• Get a good night’s rest before the big day. Try not to have a few drinks to steady your nerves.
• Arrive early so you don’t feel rushed.
• Be yourself – bring your own personality and experience to the Assessment Centre.
• Dress to impress – a favourite quote of mine is ‘dress for the job you want, not the one you have’. Gents, white socks with a dark suit is probably not a good look.
• Don’t read too much into people’s comments on forums surrounding activities, as they may not be the same for your assessment centre!

Assessment centres are also a great opportunity for you to sound out the companies you are applying for. If you get an opportunity, ask questions and find out if the company is a good fit for you.

And remember, even if you do not do well this time, it is good practice for the next time, as long as you take the opportunity to learn and progress. Good luck!

Good luck to everyone taking part in assessments & thank you to Bordo for giving some excellent tips as always! 

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