As an international student aiming to build my career in the UK, I had always wondered about assessment centres – the seemingly daunting final step in the application process for graduate schemes. The session on "How to Succeed in Assessment Centres" by Blick Rothenberg proved to be exactly what I needed – a practical session that provided a clear overview and insider tips on how to best present ourselves during the assessment setting.
Victoria Brice, the speaker and talent acquisition manager of Blick Rothenberg, broke down the assessment centre process into its key components: individual interviews, group exercises, and presentations. What I found particularly valuable was the emphasis on thorough preparation, especially regarding company values. It’s not just about stating these values but demonstrating how our own principles align with the organisation’s ethos.
We were then introduced to the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique for answering individual interview questions. The STAR technique is a structured approach that helps candidates provide clear, concise, and relevant responses. During the session, we were also encouraged to practise this technique in real-time with peers, applying it to a few mock interview questions. This hands-on practice helped me understand how to effectively structure my responses and showcase my experiences in a way that demonstrates my capabilities as well as the company values.
Furthermore, the section on group exercises was especially helpful. Victoria shared several key strategies for success: speak up and make your voice heard but remember that effective teamwork is crucial. She emphasised the importance of utilising your peers’ knowledge and ideas to deliver the best solution collectively. One particularly valuable tip was to always check the group’s understanding of the question or objective and keep everyone on track. She also advised against settling for the first idea that comes up, encouraging us to consider a range of possibilities before making decisions. These practical tips gave me a clearer picture of what assessors are really looking for in group exercises.
Later in the day, I also attended another fascinating session about UN career options. The speaker, Bridget McCarthy, opened my eyes to the variety of entry points into the UN system, from internship programmes to experienced hire positions. Being an alumna of the University of Edinburgh herself, Bridget shared with us the different programmes, including the JPO scheme, and practical resources like the UN salary calculator with its cost-of-living adjustments, giving me not only a concrete understanding of potential international career paths but also the practicality of launching a career within the UN system.
These sessions provided more than just information – they offered practical tools and insights that I’m already implementing in my career preparation. I’ve started using the career portal resources mentioned by Blick Rothenberg and have bookmarked recommended UN job boards. More importantly, I’ve gained a clearer understanding of how to approach assessment centres with confidence while remaining genuine.
The expo reinforced that while the job application process might seem daunting, especially as an international candidate, there are concrete steps I can take to prepare effectively. Whether I pursue a career in professional services in the UK or explore international organisations like the UN, I now feel better equipped to navigate these paths confidently.