What Should I Pay Attention to in Online Assessment Center Exercises?

Nowadays, many companies have moved their assessment center exercises to online platforms. While this offers significant advantages for candidates, it also presents certain challenges.

Based on the questions we receive from our clients, we have compiled the essential tips for succeeding in online assessment center exercises:

💻 Technological Preparation

• Reliable Equipment and Internet Connection: Technical issues during the assessment can negatively affect your performance evaluation. Therefore, we recommend having a good internet connection, a backup device, and headphones just in case.

• Familiarity with the Platform: If you're using platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or other specific assessment platforms, familiarize yourself with their features beforehand. If a link is shared before the meeting, do a quick test to ensure everything works smoothly.

  
  

👁️ Effective Communication in Online Settings

• Eye Contact and Gestures: In an online environment, looking directly at the camera gives the impression of making eye contact, fostering trust and sincerity. Using facial expressions and hand gestures adds variety to your communication, making your expression more impactful online.

• Tone of Voice and Diction: Voice plays a more significant role online. Using a clear and understandable tone helps the other party better comprehend your message. A monotonous tone can cause participants to lose focus; therefore, use emphasis occasionally and pay attention to your diction. Highlighting crucial information with emphasis can be particularly effective.

• Importance of Speaking Time: Avoid overly lengthy responses. Short and concise answers enhance clarity and allow for quicker responses to questions. Structure your speech according to the time allocated in the instructions and strictly adhere to the time limits.

• Active Listening and Feedback: Listen carefully and provide feedback through nodding or short affirmations (“I understand,” “Absolutely”). Summarizing the other party's statements shows that you value their input and enhances communication effectiveness. Active listening skills are especially expected in role play exercises.

• Structured Speaking: Having a structured approach is crucial in online communication. Start with the main idea, support it with details, and conclude clearly. This helps the listener follow your points more easily. Using bullet points or structuring your speech with the STAR technique will also be noted by the assessor.

  
  

👩‍💼 Environment and Appearance

• Organized and Professional Environment: Ensure your background is tidy and free of distractions. If possible, use a virtual background to maintain a professional appearance.

• Dress Code: Even in a virtual setting, wearing appropriate and professional attire is essential. Evaluators form their first impressions through the screen. A white shirt with a visible collar is recommended for a clean and professional look.

  
  

👉🏻 In Online Group Exercises:

• Balancing Communication: Just as in a physical environment, active participation is crucial in online group exercises. However, refraining from interrupting others and listening attentively require greater sensitivity in a virtual setting.

• Taking Notes and Screen Sharing: When sharing your ideas or providing a summary, using screen sharing can enhance clarity. This is especially useful if the instructions specify presenting your ideas or if the assessor indicates that a presentation is acceptable.

  
  

😴 Mental and Physical Preparation

• Long online sessions can lead to mental fatigue. Being well-rested before the assessment helps maintain focus.

These tips will help you perform at your best in online assessment centers.

If you need professional support while preparing for assessment center exercises, you can contact our team and experience the process with greater confidence.

Author: Elif ilknur Tüzün