Interviews, tests and assessment centres help employers address final questions before hiring. Learn what to expect and how to prepare.
What employers are looking for
When interviewing or testing you, employers will be considering the following:
- Can you do the job? – Do you have the necessary skills, experience and knowledge? This may be assessed through tests or exercises
- Will you do the job? – Do you have the interest and enthusiasm to thrive in the role?
- Will you fit in? – Does your working style, values and goals align with the organisation?
Interviews
Interviews can take place in person, online or over the phone. Preparation is key to being successful. Research the role you're applying for and learn about the values and goals of the organisation – this will help you predict the types of questions that might come up.
Make sure to practice answering different types of questions and think about how you can draw on your skills and experience.
Resources and guidance
- Read our guide on how to prepare for an interview on CareerZone
- Read our guide on how to answer different types of questions on CareerZone
- Browse advice on specific interview questions and practice your technique with our video interview software
- For advice on preparing for interviews, book a one-to-one careers appointment
- To practice interview techniques, book a mock interview session on CareerZone
Tests
Psychometric tests are assessment techniques used to measure a range of characteristics, including intellectual ability or aptitude, personality, motivation and situational judgement. They help employers find out if you have the abilities or personal qualities required for the job.
They usually take place online and are timed. Your score is compared with the scores of previous, successful applicants to predict if you'll perform effectively in the job.
They may be used at the start or end of the application and selection process.
Our top tips for psychometric tests
- Give yourself plenty of time in a calm and familiar environment
- Make sure you have everything you need – eg a stable internet connection, pen and paper or calculator
- Pay close attention to any instructions
- For aptitude tests with right and wrong answers, use practice tests to get familiar with the format
- For situational judgement tests, research the organisation's values to guide your responses
- For personality tests, answer honestly – trying to guess the ideal response may backfire
- If you need adjustments, inform the employer in advance
Resources and guidance
- You can find detailed advice and sample tests in the Career Discovery section on CareerZone
- Browse a wide range of practice tests and advice on GraduatesFirst
- Take sample tests and discover useful resources on the Practice Aptitude Tests website
Assessment centres
Some employers may ask you to attend an assessment centre, where multiple selectors evaluate your performance in job-related activities alongside other candidates over half or a full day.
Assessment centres may involve the following:
- Simulation exercises – to assess job-relevant tasks or skills, such as case studies or e-tray exercises, individually or in groups
- Presentations – you'll prepare a presentation before or during the assessment to present to assessors and potentially other candidates
- Interviews – to discuss your suitability and motivation for the role
- Psychometric tests – including aptitude (what you know) or personality (how you work) tests
- Information sessions – to update you on the organisation's activities and job opportunities. Take advantage of these to prepare for other exercises
- Social periods – such as lunch with other candidates, recent graduates and senior staff. Make sure you ask questions and show your enthusiasm
Resources and guidance
For advice on how to prepare for an assessment centre, read our guide on CareerZone.
You can also book a one-to-one careers appointment.
Contact us
If you need help with preparing for an interview, test or assessment, email us at [email protected]Email us about interviews, tests and assessment centres.