MAKING A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION
Social etiquette
Don’t lose concentration
It’s going to be a long and tiring day, so try to make sure you have a good night’s sleep beforehand as you’ll need to stay alert and engaged. On top of that, even if you’re assured that the informal food and drinks don’t play any part in the selection process, you should be careful not to gorge yourself – evaluators know when you’re dozing off from a full belly whether you’re physically there or not! Be yourself
Instead of feeling the need to act a part, just be the most positive version of yourself. Try to relax and behave naturally. You might even find it possible to enjoy yourself despite the inevitable nerves, and a smile is more likely to make a good impression than a face frozen in fear!
More often than not, the trickiest part of assessment centres aren’t even the exercises, but the composure that you must maintain throughout the entire day – in both formal and informal settings. That said, how should you carry yourself during social intervals, such as lunch or tea and coffee breaks? Many applicants have little experience socialising in a professional context, whether physically or virtually, and this can be a source of stress for them. But there’s no need to fret! Here’s how you should conduct yourself during the social bits of an assessment centre. Introduce yourself confidently
When you want to start a conversation with a recruiter, be pleasant in the way you approach them – a polite smile and a handshake is the standard introduction practice when in-person, and smiling and speaking clearly if virtual. You can then get the ball rolling by giving your name and some relevant background information, much like your subject of study.
Ask recruiters questions
Avoid approaching recruiters during social breaks with personal questions. Play safe instead, and ask industryrelated questions to demonstrate your earnestness and determination. General questions about recruiters’ career backgrounds and time with the company are good conversation starters as well. Strike a balance between eating and socialising
Don’t forgo eating just because you’re nervous or want to take the opportunity to network! You still have a long day ahead of you, and an empty stomach might jeopardise your subsequent performance, even if it might be easier to hide it virtually. If you feel like you need some time to eat or compose yourself before the next assessment session begins, don’t be worried about having to move away when attending the event in-person, but do so politely! A simple “excuse me” will usually be more than sufficient to free yourself. If your attendance is virtual, explain that you need some time to yourself, and that you’re going to turn off your camera and mute your microphone.
How do I know if it is going well? You know you are on track when… • You’ve achieved a mix of taking charge and taking a back seat • At the end of the day, you realise you’ve actually managed to enjoy yourself Things are not going so well if... • You didn’t meet anyone – fellow candidates and assessors – whose company you enjoyed • You walk away feeling suspicious, judged and anxious
Bonus tips Presenting at assessment centres
Speaking in front of a mixed group of candidates and assessors is no easy feat, so give yourself the best chance by following these tips: • Make sure you have a structure for your presentation • Practise, practise and practise! • Use visual aids to guide your audience • Start only when you’re ready! directory 2022 | 91
