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|Leadership Development
Key Considerations in an Assessment Center
Published on Feb 20, 2026
min read
Assessment Centres have become an integral part of talent assessment and development in several organizations. Organizations choose them for many reasons. A few could be listed here.
Multiple methods of assessment that give a holistic view of the person
Many assessors have a view that helps to remove biases
The scientific approach of observation and ratings
Focussed approach to creating a development plan
Neutral assessment most probably by a third party to enhance acceptability and avoid biased
However, here are the tips from People Business’s decades of experience in conducting development assessment centers both virtual and in-person.
Virtual Assessment Centers
While technology platforms are important – partners' ability to design, have the right assessors, and consulting experience is critical. Employees are not there for the technology but the experience of assessment.
Have the right orientation to employees before assessment. They should not get penalized for the difficulty in using a technology platform.
Stick to the basics – Assessor to participants ratio, exercise to competencies ratio, the experience of assessors, IDP creation
Assessments are a big part of employee experience and development. Choose a partner who ensures the right quality and does not compromise on quality for cost.
Focus more on assessors' face time with participants. Automated assessments have their limitations and lack buy-in from participants.
In-Person Assessment
Choose the right kind of exercises as per the level of the participants
Always have an orientation before the assessment center
Stick to the basics – Assessor to participants ratio, exercise to competencies ratio, the experience of assessors, IDP creation.
Always prefer in-person assessments for senior levels in the organization. They would like to engage more with the assessors
Focus on insights as much as quantitative ratings on competencies
Have the feedback and IDP discussions as soon as possible after the assessments
Have reflection exercises to maximize development
Enable sharing of experience amongst participants – learn from each other if it is a development center
Customize the exercises to the level and industry – increase acceptability
Whether you are doing a Virtual Assessment Center or an in-person assessment center, what matters is sticking to the basic principles mentioned above.
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