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IBM Associate Complex Project Management Consultant

Hi
I applied for this role like 10 mins ago. and got an invite for a video assessment 'You're invited to complete IBM's recorded competency interview. This short and engaging assessment allows you to showcase your skills beyond a traditional job application.' I am new to this and what does it mean and does everyone get this mail or is it selective.

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Profile picture of Cristian
on Feb 26, 2026
Most awarded coach | Ex-McKinsey | Verifiable 88% offer rate (annual report) | First-principles cases + PEI storylining

Since you just applied to the role and you got the reply in 10 mins, I would safely assume it's automated. 

I haven't done the assessment myself, so if in doubt, and especially if you have time before having to complete it, reach out to the recruiter and ask for more information about the assessment. This would enable you to prepare better.

Best,
Cristian

Profile picture of Ashwin
Ashwin
Coach
on Feb 26, 2026
Ex-Bain | 500+ MBB Offers

This is an automated step. Almost everyone who applies gets this invite immediately. Do not read it as a signal either way.

It is a recorded video interview. You get a question on screen, short prep time, then record your answer. No live interviewer. Typically three to five questions around problem solving, teamwork, and client situations.

Tips to handle it well:

  • Treat it seriously. A real person reviews your responses later.
  • Structure every answer simply: situation, what you did, result. Keep it under two minutes.
  • Look at the camera, not the screen. Do not read from notes, it is obvious.
  • Quiet spot, good lighting. Basic but many people mess this up.

This stage filters out low effort candidates, not identifies top ones. The real screening happens after this step.

Prepare three to four strong stories showing leadership, problem solving, and teamwork. Those will cover most questions they throw at you.

Profile picture of Jenny
Jenny
Coach
14 hrs ago
Buy 1 get 1 free for 1st time clients | Ex-McKinsey Interviewer & Manager | +7 yrs Coaching | Go from good to great

Hi there,

If you received the invitation in 10 min, it's probably an auto-invitation.

Profile picture of Kevin
Kevin
Coach
12 hrs ago
Ex-Bain (London) | Private Equity & M&A | 12+ Yrs Experience | The Reflex Method | Free Intro Call

That's a common experience, especially with large firms like IBM – you apply and almost instantly get a link for a video assessment. It's totally understandable to wonder if it's selective or just standard procedure.

Here's the reality: for many high-volume roles, particularly at the Associate Consultant level, this initial video assessment is an automated, standard first step in the recruiting funnel. It's not typically selective in the sense that a human has reviewed your application yet. Think of it as an efficient filter to screen a large candidate pool for basic communication skills and a set of predefined competencies before any recruiter or hiring manager invests their time. Most, if not all, applicants who meet very basic initial criteria will receive this invite.

Your next step is to prepare for it as you would any interview. Research typical behavioral questions for consulting roles, understand IBM's values and culture, and practice articulating your experiences clearly. Treat it seriously; it's your first chance to make a good impression.

All the best!