About the Role
Understanding our assessment process
Whether you applied for a job at the University of Nottingham or another organisation, you may be asked to complete additional assessment tasks as a part of the process. These could include a written or practical test on the day, an online assessment before the interview, a group discussion, or a presentation.
In our recruitment process we may use a range of alternative assessment methods in addition to a structured interview that are designed to give you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and abilities in different ways.
Examples of assessments used in addition to a structured interview, depending on the type of role you are applying for, might include.
Deliver a lecture or a presentation to the interviewing panel or invited audience
Talk about a specific topic in a group discussion
Complete a job-related task such as an in-tray exercise, write an email in response to a given scenario, prioritisation
Diagnose an equipment fault and suggest ways it could be repaired
For example;
We may use a managerial scenario exercise for a role with management responsibilities.
Online assessments
We use a variety of online assessments for you to demonstrate your skills and to assist managers in making selection decisions. You may be asked to complete this type of assessment prior to attending your interview depending on the role you are applying for.
Examples include:
Skills Tests
Analysis Exercises
Situational Judgment Tests
Ability/aptitude tests
Personality questionnaires
If we are using an online assessment, you will be asked to complete this prior to attending the interview. You will receive instructions in your invitation to interview and it is important that you complete it by the given deadline. A helpful guide will be shared with you to explain more about the assessment you have been asked to do and to help you know what to expect before you start. Prior to beginning the assessment, you will have the option to take a practise test to familiarise yourself with the process.
Tips on how to succeed in assessments
Aptitude and skill-based tests
Access the practice tests which are usually available online
Carefully read/listen to instructions before you start and make sure you understand them, if not please contact us
Ask for clarification if you not sure what to do
Try to work quickly and accurately
Move on to the next task to save time and avoid getting stuck
Make sure you watch the time
Presentations
Structure your presentation
Make sure the content addresses the topic
Make sure you deliver the content in clear and concise way
Try to engage with the audience by keeping an eye contact
Check if you can use visual aids, such as PowerPoint
Make sure you are prepared, practice before will help you with this and to manage time
Group discussions
Actively listen and be engaged / engaging
Demonstrate you can work with others
Address the topic
Think about the group as well as your role in the task
Seek to involve everyone as a part of the discussion
Psychometrics
Go with your instinct, don’t try to guess what they are looking for
Be yourself - there are consistency measures built into the process
Good Luck!
Go to 'Understanding our interview process' page
Go to 'Preparing for your interview' page
Go to 'Receiving an offer' page