By Jacinta Hargadon
Assessment centres are a powerful tool for employers looking to improve the accuracy and fairness of their recruitment process.
Our guide shows HR teams how to use assessment centres effectively — from understanding what they involve to knowing when they add the most value. It also highlights the key business benefits, including more reliable hiring decisions, stronger candidate evaluation and a more consistent selection experience.
In this guide, learn about:
- What is an assessment centre?
- Virtual assessment centres
- The business benefits of using assessment centres
- Fair, objective and reliable outcomes
- An accurate assessment of future job performance
- Standardised conditions and environment
- An enhanced candidate experience
- A good return on investment
- When to use assessment centres for selection
- Graduates
- Specialist staff
- Practical considerations
- Costs
- Accommodation
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About the author

Jacinta Hargadon
Jacinta Hargadon is an independent assessor and coach. She has more than 16 years’ experience of assisting individuals and organisations with their development and assessment decisions for recruitment and development.
She has worked with all levels of client from the private and public sectors, for a huge and diverse range of companies, including financial services, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, transport, media, the arts and housing. She has UK as well as Asia Pacific region work experience.
She holds an MSc in Organisational Behaviour, as well as the British Psychological Society (BPS), and European Federation of Psychologists’ Association (EFPA), European Test User Certificate, Level 2, Work & Organisational Assessment, (formerly BPS Level A & B).
A qualified and accredited coach, she has extensive expertise in the design and delivery of coaching and assessment programmes. She is qualified and experienced in a large range of psychometric assessments, including ability tests, personality questionnaires, leadership development, 360°, and emotional intelligence.
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