Hello, 

For me, it would be practising how to make my own contribution really clear. I believe I may have scored better on the video interview if I got quicker to what I personally did, why I made those choices and what difference they made. I only had 2 minutes per answer and would have practiced getting quicker with my answers or preparing to say the most important points.

I’d practise answering questions out loud, using a simple structure like: what was the situation, what did I need to achieve, what did I personally do and why, and what was the result?

I’d also say don’t get too caught up trying to work out the “perfect” answer. Listen/Read carefully to what you’re actually being asked, use your own experiences and explain your reasoning. The assessors can only give you credit for evidence you actually tell them.

For the assessment centre, I'd have liked to have practiced not rushing into things. Just take a few moments to again listen or read what it is really being asked of you. I remember getting part way through a task, re-read the activity and had to start over. 
Also, just be your authentic self. I'd have liked to have spent some time as to what that looked like for me and whether my authentic self matched things like the civil service values. So spend some time reflecting and preparing against things like the values within the Civil Service. I didn't do particularly well with a group task but I learnt from it that I need to be clear in what value I'm bringing to a discussion, it's not about being the loudest or most dominant, but don't leave the task feeling regretful if you didn't contribute more. Ask questions, be curious, be inclusive in allowing others to contribute. These kind of thing's I've learnt during TSP and beyond, but would have liked to have felt more prepared for the assessment centre by considering how to be more impactful in group situations. 

Best of luck with your application! 

20 October, 2026 13:26