About Group Discussion:
Group Discussion is a process where
exchange of ideas and opinions are debated upon. This process is mostly used
for selecting candidates for admission to management schools basically for MBA.
A typical GD comprises of a small
group of candidates. Each group is then given a topic for discussion. The topic
can be general or specific. Example: Kashmir Conflict or just a phrase saying "Where there's a
will there's a way".
Remember to take a stand during the
discussion. It is not necessary that you conclude by a positive or a negative
viewpoint, but to summarize the discussion well and being neutral gives you an
edge over others. The candidates are given a time limit for discussing this
topic. Each participant has to give his or her views about this topic. The
panelists are there to judge the discussion. After the time limit is over, the
best candidate from the group is selected. The same process is followed for
other groups.
Tips
on GROUP DISCUSSION
To help you better we have compiled a
list of points that you should keep in mind while you participate in a group discussion.
Group discussions are an important
part of the selection process for admission into a B-School of your choice. You
have passed the intelligence test, with GD, your oratory and communication
skills along with your problem solving skills will be tested.
Let’s
read about the points that you should keep in mind:
1)Adequate matter/ Subject matter is
essential : You should have subject knowledge and be well aware of the latest
happenings around you, not just in India but around the world as well. To be in
a better position, make sure that you have in-depth knowledge on the subject.
Subject knowledge is a pre-requisite while you are preparing for a group
discussion because you will then have the power to steer the conversation to
whichever direction you want to. If you can memorize some relevant data, it
will be an added advantage.
2) Make Sure you Read Widely: Being
an avid reader will help you in group discussions. Last minute preparations you
are strictly a no no, while you are preparing for group discussions. You should
read over a period of time. Reading not only adds to your knowledge database,
but enhances your vocabulary skills as well. Plus reading over a period of
time, helps in your understanding of a particular subject/ topic better.
3) Choose Magazines that are Rich in
Content: Always opt for magazines that are content rich and not just full of
advertisements. Often magazines have columns which are promoting a particular
institute etc. Avoid such magazines, do some research and buy the best that
will be beneficial for you in the long run.
4) Be Aware of Topics that are
Repeated: Often, there are topics which re-appear with minute changes and minor
variations. Be aware of such topics well in advance so that you have ample time
to prepare for the same. For example the issues of terrorism, gender
inequality, poverty, Ayodhya conflict, liberalization and privatization,
reservations in educational institutions etc often appear as GD topics. Make
sure you know these topics well and can come up with some unique, insightful
points along with dates, stating facts.
5) Work on your Communication Skills:
You should be well versed in your communication skills. You should have a good
vocabulary and a decent command over English. Much before your actual group
discussion, rehearse well. You can sit with a group of friends and choose a
topic and indulge in a friendly banter. Not only will this increase your
knowledge, you will be a better speaker by the time it is time for your GD.
6) Listen to the Topic Given During
GD Carefully: Listen to the topic carefully and understand it... Be alert and
vigilant. Sometimes, the topic may be really simple but the manner in which it
is presented to you, can be baffling. The first thing that you should do after
hearing the topic is by structuring it on the sheet that is given to you to make
notes. Make a rough sketch of the points that you would like to speak aloud.
You will be at an advantage if you open the discussion, but then beware of what
you speak. Deviating from the main topic, or passing strong statements like ‘I
agree/ or disagree …’ should be avoided. Your strategy should be to test the
waters and make a generic statement relevant to the topic. If you can, back it
up by relevant data.
7) Try and Maintain a Balance in your
Tone: Besides what you are saying, remember that the panelists are observing
your body language as well. If you do not agree with the other student’s point
of view, do not raise your tone in objection. Listen to his point of view and
instead of dismissing it upfront, try and draw a common ground. .
8) Listening Skills are Essential:
Carefully listen to what others have to say. Just speaking throughout the
discussion doesn’t make you smart, you should also give others a chance to
speak. Try and listen to him/her, respect their view point too. If the speaker
is making an eye-contact with you remember to acknowledge him by saying “yes,
you agree” or just by nodding your head, so that the speaker is aware that his
listeners are listening to him and paying full attention. This will also show
that you are vigilant and are an active participant in the discussion.
9) Body Gestures are very Important:
The panelists observe the way you sit and react in the course of the
discussion. . Body gestures are very important, because your body language says
a lot about you.In a GD, sit straight, avoid leaning back on to the chair or
knocking the table with pen or your fingers. Also, do not get distracted
easily. For example, if the door in room you are sitting in opens, do not look
back to see who it is , this will show how distracted you are.
10) Be the first and also the Last to
Speak: As mentioned earlier, initiating a GD is an advantage. Closing it too
also adds brownie points. If you can grab the opportunity to close the
discussion, then you should summarize it. If the group has not reached a
conclusion try concluding it .
Imagine you are driving and you have
the power to accelerate or brake according to the situation on the road and
avoid any accidents. Try to be that conscientious driver in a GD. Take the
initiative, know when to apply your brakes and when to seize the opportunity
and accelerate the conversation to reach to a desired destination; conclusion
in your case.
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