Big 4 Assessment Centre - The Winning Formula (EY, PWC, Deloitte, KPMG)

Summary

In this video, the presenter shares expert tips for excelling in Big Four assessment centers, drawing on their experience as both a participant and assessor. Key components include the group exercise, individual tasks, and tests, with a strong emphasis on demonstrating teamwork and collaboration during group activities. Candidates are encouraged to showcase skills such as adaptability, curiosity, integrity, and resilience. Essential dos and don’ts for presenting oneself professionally are highlighted, as well as the importance of engaging with assessors and peers. Ultimately, the goal is to be someone others would want to work with, enhancing your chances of success.

Takeaways

• 😀 The group exercise is the most important part of the Big Four assessment center; it's about teamwork, not just getting the right answer.
• 😀 Demonstrating adaptability is crucial; show how you can change your opinion based on new information.
• 😀 Curiosity is key; ask insightful questions that promote discussion and learning among team members.
• 😀 Collaboration is essential; listen actively and ensure your contributions are relevant to the group conversation.
• 😀 Maintain integrity by admitting mistakes and addressing them directly rather than trying to cover them up.
• 😀 Show learning agility by demonstrating how new information can shift your perspective.
• 😀 Resilience is important; handle challenges calmly and don’t get flustered by dominant personalities in the group.
• 😀 Demonstrate motivation by being engaged and knowledgeable about the firm and the position you're applying for.
• 😀 Build relationships during the assessment center by getting to know assessors and other candidates, and express gratitude at the end.
• 😀 For the individual task, write clearly and avoid jargon; structure your writing effectively with a clear beginning, middle, and conclusion.

Q & A

What are the main components of the Big Four assessment center?

The main components include a group task, an individual exercise, and possibly some tests.

Why is the group task considered the most important part of the assessment center?

The group task is crucial because it assesses candidates' teamwork skills and their ability to collaborate effectively, rather than simply finding the right answer.

What should candidates focus on when participating in the group task?

Candidates should focus on demonstrating collaboration, adaptability, curiosity, integrity, and effective communication.

How can candidates show adaptability during the group task?

Candidates can show adaptability by changing their opinions based on new information and expressing this shift in thinking during the discussion.

What are some effective strategies for the individual writing exercise?

Candidates should avoid jargon, manage their time effectively to include a clear start, middle, and conclusion, and use headings to structure their writing.

What is the significance of practicing for the assessment center tests?

Practicing for the tests is significant because it increases familiarity with the test format and improves the likelihood of passing.

What are some key dos and don’ts for candidates during the assessment center?

Do sit up straight, smile, and engage actively. Don’t slouch, frown, or appear disinterested.

How can candidates demonstrate curiosity during the group task?

Candidates can demonstrate curiosity by asking insightful questions that encourage discussion and expand the group's understanding.

What approach should candidates take if they make a mistake during the assessment?

Candidates should acknowledge their mistake openly and demonstrate how they will correct it, which reflects integrity and adaptability.

What should candidates do to build relationships during the assessment center?

Candidates should engage with assessors and peers, asking questions and showing interest in their experiences, which helps create a positive impression.