Assessment Centers: Guidelines
Why should you have assessment centers? In addition to evaluating specific competencies in the individual interview, it can be useful to have a setting where you can assess how the candidates interact with other people in a group, and how they behave when they have to work with other people. This is a good opportunity for you to observe the candidates in action.
When should you have assessment centers? [where does it fit in your selection flow?] Here are two suggestions: Group Meeting + Assessment Center. First you present AIESEC and its opportunities, set expectations, and then you continue with the group exercise. Assessment Center + Individual Interviews. First you have the practical exercise in groups, and then you interview the candidates individually.
What should you evaluate during the assessment centers? Since you are already doing the individual interviews, the assessment centers should be used for evaluating competencies and behaviors that can only be detected in a group setting. Suggestions for things to look after are: - How does the candidate communicate with other people (communication includes listening, understanding and talking, body language etc.) - What kind of behaviors does the candidate show in the exercise? - What kind of role does the candidate take in the group? (ex: dominant, active, passive, coordination) - How well does the candidate interact with the other people in the group -
How many candidates can one AIESEC member evaluate? A suggestion is to choose not more than 3 people that you will be observing during the exercise
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How can I find exercises for the assessment center? In the Selection Package, you find the “GCM Selection Guide” (Global Competency Model Guide). From page 9 you find examples of exercises.
Some tips for conducting the assessment center Be prepared Have all the materials you need beforehand Prepare the room as you want it beforehand Know the names of the candidates that are coming, ensure that you know who is who Decide beforehand which AIESEC member will evaluate each candidate If possible: Invite and prepare a chair who can conduct the whole meeting
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Membership Recruitment Autumn 2011: National Selection Guidelines