Assessment Centre - Examples of Activities

Case Study

Also known as an 'in tray' exercise. You’re given a number of documents that may include letters, emails, faxes, financial statements and reports. The task is to sort through these, prioritise and decide on what action is to be taken. Issues may include customer complaints, financial matters and internal conflicts.

What is being assessed? Your ability to plan, prioritise, delegate, problem solve, make decisions and your organisational skills.

Written task

You are given information in the form of reports, written text and tables or graphs. You will be expected to read and understand the information and write a report with recommendations.

What is being assessed? Your ability to communicate in writing, organise and structure your work.

Group tasks

These are given in a variety of formats. Two examples include:

• The group may be asked to discuss a topic and come to a decision. One person may be appointed as Chairperson and be expected to encourage participation and facilitate a discussion within an allocated time.
• The group may be given a task to achieve together. This could be a physical activity, such as building an object out of materials or another activity that involves planning or reasoning.

What is being assessed? Your participation, leadership, cooperation and interaction with other team members.

Oral presentation

You are asked to speak to the group for a specific time, either on a selected subject or one of your choice. Sometimes candidates have been asked to talk about the contents of their pockets!

If given the choice, pick a topic you are enthusiastic about. Think about how much time you have and edit accordingly. How you present yourself is as important as what you say. Even though this may feel like a relaxed exercise, remember that you are being judged.

What is being assessed? Your oral communication and ability to structure your ideas under pressure. It also reflects on your ability to represent the organisation.

Social event

It may not be apparent that you are being assessed over an afternoon tea or what appears to be an informal drink. Expect to be assessed from the time you arrive to the time you depart. There is no need to be stiff and formal, but maintain a friendly and professional manner.

What is being assessed? Your interpersonal skills and ability to maintain appropriate behaviour at social functions that you may end up attending for the company.