IBM eXtreme Blue

The IBM eXtreme blue selection process varies drastically depending on where you are applying to. Each different locale can interview very differently. This is based on the UK method of assessment for eXtreme blue.

• Online application form
• Online aptitude tests
• First round selection/assessment day
• Assessment Centre

Application Form

You’ll need to complete the IBM standard online application form and attach a copy of your CV to complete your application. IBM are looking for people who have the key competencies and skills to be successful at IBM, and provide a competencies based CV template on their application form for you to complete. Some find this quite restrictive, however it is very useful for you as it provides an exact framework in which to talk about their key competencies.

Online Test

IBM allow applicants a week to take their online numerical reasoning and verbal reasoning aptitude tests. This is called the IPATO test. It comprises of Sequence matching, Matrix Manipulation (tables, not horrific matrix maths) and some numerical / verbal reasoning questions. Be aware that is unlikely that you will be able to finish each section within the time given to you. Also be aware that cheating will be found out, see below.

First Round Selection/Assessment Day

If you pass the IBM online aptitude tests, you will be invited to attend a first round selection/assessment day. This will be held at IBM Hursley.

This day primarily focuses on your team working skills by means of a single group activity. There will also be a written test comprising of either multiple choice questions based on a mixture of algorithms, small programs and SQL / Data or an essay based test depending on your application (ie, business or technical). If you are successful on this day then you will be invited to an assessment centre. This is the last part of the very technical questions for applicants.

Assessment Centre

The IBM assessment centre has been designed to give you the opportunity to demonstrate a broader range of skills than you would be able to if you just had an interview. You will complete a number of different exercises and interviews aimed at giving you the chance to show a range of the skills you possess.

There are a mixture of group activities, a presentation, a problem solving - role play activity as well as an interview. If you have got to this stage they already know your technical skill level and will not be assessing this as heavily as you might expect. At this stage of the assessment process they are much more interested in how well you fulfil the key competencies they have outlined on their website. You will not be asked to recursively program the Fibonacci sequence for instance, however you will be expected to show understanding of software engineering practices in the group activities etc.