The in-basket is a common simulation exercise used in assessment centers. It tests how the candidate will handle the responsibilities of the new position by presenting a range of problems they may encounter. During an in-basket, the candidate receives information about the role to be played, such as descriptions, responsibilities, and general context.

The candidate is then given the in-basket materials and asked to respond to contents within a particular time. As the candidate completes an item, it transfers to the "out-basket."

After completion of the exercise, a discussion with the evaluators often takes place. In this discussion, the candidate describes their justification for the decisions.

A few examples of items you may see during an in-basket are below.

Evaluators can score the candidates in the following areas.

Having a systematic approach is essential. You can organize your basket items by time or by priority.

The 4 Skills to Ace the Inbasket along with the tools from The Promotion Playbook. 

The Promotion Playbook: A Proven Path to Your Fire Department Promotion