1. Introduction

Should you practice assessments to prepare for the Centrica recruitment process? According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

In a nutshell:

How to prepare for Centrica assessment tests and get the job?

1. Complete Your Centrica Online Application

• Fill in your Centrica application online.
• Match your application to Centrica values.
• Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
• Tailor the information you provide with the role’s competency needs.

2. Practice For Your Centrica Online Assessments

Centrica will use a variety of job assessment tests to assess you at this stage. These assessment tests may include:

• Personality Tests
• Situational Judgement Tests
• Numerical Reasoning Tests
• Verbal Reasoning Tests

You may get rejected already after completing your Centrica assessment tests. These tests can sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

Prepare for your Centrica video interview by running mock interviews and answering similar Centrica interview questions for the role you are applying for. For Centrica interview practice, use the following:

• a smartphone to record yourself
• Zoom or
• Our reliable video interview platform

Use the STAR+R method for your answers and practice each answer several times.

4. Prepare for the Centrica Assessment Centre Exercises

Centrica uses different exercises during the assessment centre stage to find the right employee. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises including:

• Group Exercises
• Final Interviews

To prepare for your Centrica application process, click on the table below to practice tests relevant to the Centrica assessment process!

Practice Work Personality Questionnaire

Start practicing

Practice Situational Judgement Tests

Start practicing

Practice Numerical Reasoning Tests

Start practicing

Practice Verbal Reasoning Tests

Start practicing

Practice Video Interviews

Start practicing

Prepare for your Assessment Centre

Start practicing

The Centrica assessment process includes several stages which we break down in this complete guide. under the following:

Centrica Application Process

Who is Centrica?

Centrica is a British multinational energy and services company headquartered in Windsor, Berkshire. Its main service is electricity and gas supply in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Centrica operates in several countries as Scottish Gas, British Gas, Phoenix Gas, and Bord Gáis Energy. Due to its large operation, Centrica has 20,000+ employees worldwide and screens hundreds of applications yearly to hire the best candidates.

Discover the various job areas you can apply to at Centrica below.

Centrica Job Areas

What roles can I apply to in Centrica?

As the largest supplier of gas in the UK and a provider of electricity and household services across the globe, Centrica has many roles you could apply to in different business areas. Some of these include:

These are just a few business areas you could apply to at Centrica.

Now, let’s dive into the Centrica recruitment process which starts with completing your Centrica online application.

2. Centrica Online Application

How to apply for Centrica jobs?

Your Centrica job application process begins with your online application. You will need to submit an online application for your desired role through Centrica’s official careers website.

To complete your Centrica online application, you will be required to provide the following information:

• Personal information 
• Education and qualifications 
• Contact information 
• Resume upload/Experience
• Diversity e.g. race, ethnicity, etc.
• Additional information, e.g. application source, need for sponsorship, etc.

Centrica Application Form

Source: Centrica Careers

What are the Centrica Values?

Centrica has five core values that guide the company’s culture strictly. These five core values are:

Once you submit your Centrica application online, it will be reviewed by Centrica’s recruitment team. If your application is seen as a good fit, depending on the role, you may be required to complete some Centrica online assessment tests.

3. Centrica Online Assessments

What are the Centrica job tests?

The Centrica online assessment tests are psychometric tests designed to assess your work behaviours, basic skills and reasoning. These assessments help reveal more of your capabilities and skills to Centrica.

What tests are in the Centrica online assessments?

The Centrica online assessments vary depending on the role you apply for. However, you can expect to complete one or a combination of the following tests in your Centrica online test:

1. Personality Test
2. Numerical Reasoning Test
3. Verbal Reasoning Test

Let’s find out what each of these Centrica online assessment tests are, what they entail and what they assess.

Centrica Personality Test

What is the Centrica personality test?

The Centrica personality test is quite similar to a situational judgement test instead. This test will present you with potential work scenarios for you to determine the best next action or decision from the provided options.

What does the Centrica personality test measure?

The Centrica personality test assesses your suitability for the role, fit with the company, and if you align well with the Centrica values based on your behaviours and approach to situations presented.

Want to know why the Centrica personality test is a situational judgement test? Watch our video below to find out what a situational judgement test is.

How to Pass the Centrica Personality Test

Consider our team’s handy tips below while completing your Centrica personality test.

1. Understand the Centrica values thoroughly. This helps you know the principles and behaviours that guide the Centrica work culture and what they typically look for in potential employees.
2. Read the Centrica job description properly. Pay attention to the requirements listed as this will help you determine the competencies required by Centrica for the role.
3. Practice situational judgement tests to familiarise yourself with example scenarios similar to the format of Centrica personality test questions.
4. Read all instructions carefully. Ensure to read the instructions of the Centrica personality test thoroughly to ensure you know what to do during the test.
5. Think like an employee of the company. For each scenario, consider the most effective response that aligns with Centrica’s way of working which involves team collaboration and delivering good services.
6. Be authentic and self-reflective with your answers. Think of how you align with the Centrica values and choose your answers based on authenticity and honesty.

Watch our short video below for more actionable tips to help you pass your Centrica personality test.

After completing the Centrica personality test, you may also need to take the Centrica numerical reasoning test which we cover in the next section below!

Centrica Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the Centrica numerical reasoning test?

The Centrica numerical reasoning test includes questions on graphs, percentages, and tables and will require you to interpret data and choose your answer from a set of options.

What does the Centrica numerical reasoning test measure?

This Centrica online test will assess your ability to process and analyse numerical information, draw conclusions and make quality decisions from them.

Watch our video below to discover even more about how the Centrica numerical reasoning test works!

How to Pass the Centrica Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Ensure to brush up on your knowledge of basic arithmetics. Revising basic maths covered at the GCSE or equivalent level will be helpful for your Centrica numerical test.
2. Practice with tests similar to the Centrica numerical test to mimic the conditions of the actual test. This will help you improve your speed, accuracy, and your score.
3. Familiarise yourself with the format of this Centrica online test. Knowing what to expect helps reduce anxiety and focus solely on answering questions correctly.
4. Pay attention to the details of the graphs or data tables to avoid making errors. Understand what each question in the Centrica numerical test is asking before attempting to answer.
5. Strengthen your ability to do mental maths. This will enable you to make calculations in your head while taking this Centrica job test with proper accuracy, hence, saving you time.
6. Recheck your calculations if time allows. Particularly, for questions where you performed harder arithmetics. This will minimise the probability of errors in your Centrica online test answers.

For more hints on how to pass your Centrica numerical reasoning test, watch our short video below. 

Using the tips we provided above and in the video, take the opportunity to try an example Centrica numerical reasoning test question provided by our experts below!

Centrica-style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the correct answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

Looking for even more Centrica numerical test practice?

Centrica Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the Centrica verbal reasoning test?

The Centrica verbal reasoning test will involve you reading a few paragraphs and answering questions based on information you deduce from them. Each paragraph will be followed by a statement and the options will be True, False or Cannot Say.

What will the Centrica verbal reasoning test measure?

This Centrica online assessment test will assess your ability to understand written information and your analytical skills to deduce and infer accurate decisions from them.

In our short video below, we explain more about the Centrica verbal reasoning test.

How to Pass the Centrica Verbal Reasoning Test

1. Practice verbal reasoning questions that are similar to this Centrica test to improve your reading comprehension skills and become accustomed to the question types.
2. Familiarise yourself with the format of the Centrica verbal reasoning test. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare effectively and reduces anxiety.
3. Practice speed reading techniques to increase your reading speed while still understanding. This can help you to read through the passages quicker in your Centrica verbal test.
4. Pay attention to details and major points in the paragraphs. Note key points and make mental notes of details that stand out as you read through the text in this Centrica assessment test.
5. Consider the context of the passages in your Centrica verbal reasoning test. This enables you to interpret the text accurately and answer questions that follow in context.
6. Analyse the information critically. Assess the arguments presented and observe the statements. This makes it easier to draw logical conclusions for questions that require it in this Centrica test.

For more tips on how to pass your Centrica verbal reasoning test, watch this short video:

Practice a free example of the Centrica verbal reasoning test question provided by our experts below using the tips we provided above and in the video!

Centrica-style Verbal Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the right answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

Looking to further your Centrica verbal reasoning test prep?

After completing the online assessment tests, if you are successful and depending on the role you applied for, you may move on to complete the Centrica video interview.

4. Centrica Video Interview

What is the Centrica video interview?

The Centrica video interview is an online interview where you will be required to record video responses to pre-recorded interview questions, usually with a time limit for each answer you record. Centrica recently started using HireVue for its video interviews.

What does the Centrica video interview measure?

The Centrica video interview only involves competency questions that will assess your fit and compatibility with the role and team using your experience, skills, and capabilities.

Watch our short video below to understand what the Centrica video interview involves.

7 Top Tips to Pass the Centrica Video Interview

1. Research Centrica and the role beforehand. Understand what the role entails and tailor your answers to show how your skills and experiences align with the company’s objectives.
2. Understand the Centrica values. This helps you to be able to practice and give answers that reflect Centrica’s culture as your alignment with it is crucial for your success.
3. Practice with video interview tools. Use video interview tools online to practice with similar Centrica interview questions. This will help build your confidence and reduce anxiety.
4. Practice your answers. Prepare good examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills and experience. Use the STAR+R method to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
5. Manage your time well. You may have limited time to respond to each Centrica video interview question. Keep your answers concise and to the point.
6. Dress professionally. Dress as you would for an in-person interview in Centrica-accepted attire. This helps to give a good impression to the Centrica recruiter who may review it.
7. Use appropriate body language when recording your answers like maintaining eye contact with the camera to show confidence. Pay attention to your posture and gestures to ensure they project professionalism and enthusiasm.

Use the tips above to practice the following Centrica video interview questions.

Centrica Interview Questions and Answers

Some Centrica interview questions at this stage include:

• What is your biggest weakness?
• What is your approach to managing difficult situations with vendors?
• Tell about one situation where you went above and beyond.
• Why are you best suited for this role?
• What experience can you bring to the role?
• Describe a situation where you had to work as a team.

Read on as we give example answers to some of these Centrica interview questions below.

Question: What is your biggest weakness?

Good Answer: 

One area where I have identified a need for improvement is in my public speaking skills. In the past, I have experienced some nervousness and anxiety when speaking in front of large groups, which occasionally impacted my ability to convey information confidently and persuasively.

To address this weakness, I’ve taken several steps to develop my public speaking abilities. I enrolled in public speaking courses and workshops to learn techniques for managing nerves and delivering engaging presentations. Additionally, I have volunteered for chances to speak at team meetings and industry events to boost my comfort level and build confidence over time. I have also sought feedback from peers and mentors to identify areas for improvement and refine my speaking style.

For more tips on how to answer the ‘What is your biggest weakness?’ Centrica interview question, watch our short video below:

Question: Describe a situation where you had to work as a team.

Good Answer:

Question: Tell me about one situation where you went above and beyond.

Good Answer:

If you are successful in the Centrica interviews stage, depending on the role you apply for, you may move on to complete a Centrica assessment centre.

5. Centrica Assessment Centre

What is the Centrica assessment centre?

The Centrica assessment centre is the final stage of the Centrica application process. It typically involves you and other shortlisted candidates attending a full day of activities for final evaluations.

What to expect at the Centrica assessment centre?

At the Centrica assessment centre, you will be required to complete one or all the following exercises:

1. Group Exercise
2. Final Interview

Let’s find out what each of these Centrica assessment centre exercises are all about.

Centrica Group Exercise

What is the Centrica group exercise?

The Centrica group exercise involves collaborating with other shortlisted candidates to either complete a designated task or analyse and discuss a chosen topic. The task or topic assigned is related to the role you applied for.

What does the Centrica group exercise measure?

The Centrica group exercise is a timed activity that will assess your ability to collaborate and work well with others. Centrica believes collaboration is fundamental to success and looks for good team spirit in you.

Top 7 Tips to Pass Your Centrica Group Exercise

1. Remember Centrica’s values. Reflect on the company’s values, especially around teamwork, innovation, and customer service. Showcase these values in your interactions.
2. Practice active listening. Show that you value others’ contributions by actively listening and acknowledging their points as this aids good teamwork, an important Centrica value.
3. Communicate clearly. Be concise and present your ideas well. Centrica values clear communication because it is essential for efficient teamwork and customer interactions.
4. Be adaptable to new ideas and strategies. Show that you can adapt to new information or changes in direction. Centrica operates in an industry that requires flexibility to achieve goals sometimes.
5. Use time wisely. Be mindful of the time limit and actively contribute to the group’s effort to organise and execute the task efficiently within the time duration.
6. Be respectful and professional. Always treat your group members respectfully, reflecting on Centrica’s caring and courageous culture.

Centrica Final Interview

What is the Centrica final interview?

The Centrica final interview is the final hurdle to completing your Centrica recruitment process. In this interview, Centrica will look to learn more about you, your motivations and knowledge about the company.

What happens in the Centrica final interview?

In the Centrica final interview, the recruiters will aim to understand who you are as a person as well as discuss your expectations of the workplace and your aspirations for the future.

Example Centrica Final Interview Questions

Some Centrica interview questions you may be asked at your Centrica final interview are:

• What do you think makes our programmes/positions unique?
• What challenges do you think you are likely to face?
• What do you think are the main changes and challenges that Centrica is likely to face over the next few years?
• What technical or functional knowledge and expertise would you bring to this role?
• What personal strengths will enable you to use your knowledge most effectively?
• What knowledge and expertise will you have to work hard to develop?

So how do we answer these Centrica interview questions? Consider the following 6 tips below to answer questions during your Centrica final interview.

How to Pass the Centrica Final Interview

1. Practice beforehand. Always practice your answers to some typical Centrica interview questions. This will help boost your confidence and ensure your preparedness.
2. Tailor your answers to the Centrica values and show how you align with the company’s culture as it plays a crucial role in determining your success in this process.
3. Reflect on your experience when giving your answers to the Centrica interview questions. Your answers are more effective when they are structured with the STAR+R model.
4. Keep your answers simple. The recruiters simply just want to get to know you, your competencies, and your skills, better and ensure that you are a good fit for Centrica.
5. Demonstrate good body language during your Centrica final interview. Your tone, responsiveness, and attitude are being taken into consideration too. Sitting up straight and using proper gestures will go a long way.
6. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your Centrica interviewers about the role and company. This demonstrates your genuine interest and engagement with the position.

Below are some questions you may consider asking in your Centrica final interview:

1. What are some of the role’s challenges?
2. How do you measure success and what are your expectations for the first 6-12 months?
3. What do you enjoy about your job?
4. Are there opportunities for professional development?
5. Is there anything about my resume that concerns you?

And….that’s a wrap on the Centrica recruitment process! If you are successful, you will get an offer from Centrica with details of the role’s specifics and onboarding. However, if unsuccessful, you may get feedback on your application from Centrica.

While you’re still here…

Don’t miss the captivating range of graduate schemes that await you at Centrica.

6. Centrica Graduate Schemes

What are the Centrica graduate schemes?

The Centrica graduate schemes are career opportunities Centrica has made available for students and graduates to ignite their careers within a fast-paced, ever-changing, energy industry.

These student and graduate Centrica opportunities include;

1. Centrica Graduate Programmes
2. Centrica Internships
3. Centrica Apprenticeships

Let’s find out what each of these Centrica graduate jobs offer.

Centrica Graduate Programmes

What are the Centrica graduate programmes?

The Centrica graduate programmes are rotational development programmes that give you opportunities to work across the company’s brands and businesses to drive changes, guide teams and challenge the status quo.

The Centrica graduate programme offers roles in various business areas such as business management, marketing, commercial analysis, finance, and engineering.

What is the duration of Centrica graduate schemes?

Centrica graduate schemes duration varies depending on the role. However, Centrica’s graduate programmes could last anywhere from 2 years and above.

What locations are Centrica graduate schemes available?

Centrica graduate schemes hire recently graduated students in all its locations including, London, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Singapore, etc.

Centrica Graduate Schemes Eligibility Criteria

1. Education: A graduate or on track to earn a degree in a course similar to the business area you are applying to.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required as applications are welcomed from recent graduates with or without work experience.

Centrica Internships

What are the Centrica internships?

The Centrica internships are for talented undergraduates who want a head start in their careers. Centrica offers you the opportunity to work on real projects with real responsibilities while benefiting from a wide support network.

The Centrica internships include summer and year-in-industry placements. These internships offer openings in various Centrica job areas including, marketing, business management, digital & technology, etc.

What is the duration of Centrica internships?

The Centrica internship duration varies depending on the role. Summer internships last for about 3 months and year-in-industry placements last for a year.

What locations are Centrica internships available?

Centrica internships hire students in all its locations including, London, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Singapore, etc.

Centrica Internships Eligibility Criteria

1. Education: A student on track for a minimum 2:1 degree (2:2 if combined with a Masters).
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required.

Centrica Apprenticeships

What are the Centrica apprenticeships?

The Centrica apprenticeships are opportunities for youngsters without a degree or experienced professionals seeking a mid-life change of direction. Centrica apprenticeships also enable you to work while studying towards earning a degree.

Centrica Apprenticeships train you in their various academies and offer roles in several business areas of the business including service and repair, installation and engineering, etc.

What is the duration of Centrica apprenticeships?

The Centrica apprenticeships vary in duration depending on the level of the apprenticeship role. Centrica apprenticeships range between 2 to 4 years or more.

What locations are Centrica apprenticeships available?

The Centrica apprenticeships hire apprentices in all its locations including, London, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Singapore, etc.

Centrica Apprenticeships Eligibility Criteria

1. Education: 4 GCSEs, ideally including Maths & English, at grade C/4 or above or a recognised equivalent.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required.

With that, we have covered all you’ll need to know about the Centrica application process, online assessment, and graduate schemes you could apply to.

But wait!

Before you start your Centrica job application and assessments, explore our FAQ section below for more answers about the Centrica hiring process.

7. Centrica Assessments FAQs