Virtual Assessment Centres: What to Know and How to Prepare?

With the unexpected emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, there are several graduate employers transitioned to virtual assessment centres instead. There's no certainty how long these will last nor their impact in the future. However, if invited to partake in various virtual assessment centres, do you know what will happen? Or, what does it take to succeed and pass? This article will provide thorough information in helping you get started. 

What is a virtual assessment centre?

Businesses tap to virtual assessment centres to group numerous candidates and analyse their graduate and work experiences in order to select the right applicant fitting to a particular job position. The same with the face-to-face assessment centre, this includes:

• information sessions

• Q&A forum

• a presentation

• an interview

• a collaborative exercise

Keep in mind that these activities may vary depending on the nature of the work. Most especially that employers are modifying their exercises concerning the platform they use.

The idea of being analysed through a wide array of online tasks may be intimidating and a challenging experience, but don't fret! Here are 10 effective tips to help prepare you to impress your recruiter at your next virtual assessment centres.

1. Take one's time.

Bear in mind to treat any virtual assessment centres in a similar way as you attend one physically. It's appropriate to schedule the day and ensure to take note of the date to prevent from forgetting it. Additionally, prepare yourself in advance, to help you feel less overwhelmed, hence not appear flustered. As a matter of fact, join the video conference a few minutes in advance, which leaves you enough time to check your audio and video. Don't forget to log out politely at the end of the session.

2. Check your tech.

In relation to the tip earlier, checking your technology prior to your meeting will exclude you to further problems during the assessment. To make certain that everything runs without any issues on that day, download the necessary software, check your audio and camera. Furthermore, practice speaking slowly and clearly, to allow slight delays to carry on. Lastly, charge your devices to avoid running out of battery in the middle of the session.

3. Clear your space.

Consider the environment of your place prior to participating in a virtual assessment centre all the time. Are there distracting background noises? Or, perhaps, from the construction work across the street? The small things help you step up the game. Plus, adjust your lighting if it's not properly angled in the camera. All in all, a tidy and plain background is your safest option. However, if this is impossible, try blurring the background on the options of your device.

Also Read: FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Assessment Centres

4. Dress appropriately.

Just because virtual assessment centres don't require you to visit their physical office, doesn't mean you won't dress to impress. Picking up clothes is quite important as this reflects your personality showing them how you present yourself. Choose the clothes that speak volumes about your smart and professional demeanor.

5. Follow instructions.

It's a must for applicants to carefully read every correspondence sent to your email from the assessment centre. There may be instances that you have to send them your portfolio to review your experience before the interview. 

6. Communicate in advance.

It is your utmost priority to be transparent to your recruiters about your ineludible technical issues such as poor connectivity and intermittent internet speed. This way, they would know in advance when such a situation arises. Also, if you consider yourself to have a health condition or disability, share this with them as well. So, necessary adjustments can be made prior to the scheduled date.

7. Smile.

Remember to main a positive impression and build rapport in the course of an interview in the virtual assessment centre. Simply enjoy the experience and smile to mask the tension off you. Maintain eye contact and be mindful of your non-verbal cues. Don't play or fidget around with jewelry, pens, or hair. If you overexpress yourself with your hands, it would be best to rehearse to avoid distracting your recruiter.

8. Be attentive.

Interviews in virtual assessment centres require your full concentration so avoid all prospective distractions at all costs. What are these? This may be your roommates, pets, and family members. To avoid such a thing to occur, inform them that you are attending an important meeting and their cooperation would be very much appreciated. Also, put your smart devices or mobile on airplane or silent mode to not cause distractions, too.

9. Do not panic.

In the event of your interview and an unexpected occurs, keep your composure. To help reduce worries, have an alternative plan like moving to a close by hot-spot or mobile data for your laptop. Prepare the contact numbers of your recruiter so it'll be easier to call them immediately and inform them whenever a situation might occur.

10. Enjoy the day.

On top of it all, instead of dreading the worst-case scenarios, change your perspective to being grateful for being chosen to be interviewed by the virtual assessment centre. Do deep breathes and come what may. Even if the result isn't successful, handle the assessment as a unique and exciting learning experience. Take this opportunity to create well-established connections and network with recruiters. With this mindset, you are more likely to land a job that best suits and fitting for you.