GROUP DISCUSSION

Group discussion have now become a sine qua non in various selection procedure. Whether it is recruitment in prestigious firm or admission in the MBA institute, aspiring candidates have to go through the rigors of the group discussion.

*what exactly is a group discussion?
Normally in a group discussion a leaderless group of 8-10 candidates is formed, and is given specific situation to analyze and discuss within a given time limit. The number of participants and the time limit given for discussions vary from situation to situation. A panel of moderates observers and evaluates them during the course of the discussions. Broadly, the moderators assess the candidates of the following points:

1. command over spoken English
2. communication skills
3. knowledge
4. convincing ability
5. interpersonal skills
6. problem solving skills
7. conceptualizing skills
8. leadership skills
9. body language
10. maturity
11. creativity
12. confidence
13. assertiveness
14. team spirit and,
15. ability to take initiatives.

In order to succeed at any group discussions, you must be perceive as having contributed meaningfully to the discussions. Also, you must appear to be a team player and not a self-centered go-getter.

The key words here are 'perceived' and 'appear'. Always remember it does not matter how you rate your performance. What counts are the moderators' rating of it. Keeping this simple fact in mind will help you tremendously in focusing on your performance. You will not be able to use excuses like "I was legitimate in losing my temper as I was provoked".

A meaningful contribution implies that you have a thorough understanding of the topic and related issues, are able to structure arguments logically and are a good communicator. Also everybody can state the obvious. Be sure to bring in diverse dimensions to the topic so that your contributions leave a mark upon the moderators. To come across as a team player you have to listen to others' point of view and encourage a healthy exchange of ideas. You must carry people with you. So do not get emotional, do not shout, nor get into petty fights. If you have spoken and you notice that someone else has tried to enter the discussion on a number of occasions and has not had the chance to do so maybe you could give him a chance the next time he tries.

Your understanding of the topic, which in turn is determined by your reading habits, influences what you speak in the group discussion. If you are well read on diverse areas then coming up with good content will not be a problem. However, if you are not in the habit of reading newspapers then at least be prepared with "current issues in the press" for the group discussion. If you are applying for a job or to a specialized college chances are that your group discussion topic will focus on the your specialization or education. Be prepared accordingly.

You should initiate the group discussion i.e. be the first to speak , only if you have understood the topic clearly. Do not work under the assumptions that if you don't initiate - you lose points. On the contrary if you initiate badly you come under the negative focus of the moderator and suffer consequently.

One common complaint of many group discussion participants is that they did not get a chance to speak. The fact of the matter is that in no group discussion do you get a chance to speak. You have to create your chances. Also a widespread misconception among students is that only the "Leader" gets selected. This makes them commit the mistake of appointing themselves as a de facto leader of the group. You must never try to impose a system whereby everyone gets a chance to speak in turn. A group discussion is meant to be a free flowing discussion. Let it proceed naturally.

For cracking the group discussion one should be at your natural self and avoid putting on a show for the moderators.

The score you receive depends both on 'what' you say and 'how' you say it. Your gestures and mannerisms are more likely to reflect your attitude than what you say. One should be assertive and not dominating apart from being patient and one should also not lose his/her cool. Also, never get involved in one to one discussions with any participants. Bring in as many diverse aspects as you can to the discussion. Always be polite. Try to use phrases like :'I would like to share my views on........' or Yes' , I agree,but.If you have understood the topic in the correct light then do initiate the GD.Always address everyone in the group.

• Never be hesitant to speak if other are speaking.remember, you never interrupt anyone in the Gd-you must enter it.
• Never argue with anyone in the group members.
• Maintain eye contact with maximum members of the group as possible.
• Never change your stand on any issue during the group discussion.
• Keep your entire brief and to the stand.
• Finally, practice makes perfect.Mock GD sessions go a long way in improving your performance and confidence.