Since the candidates will soon be receiving interview letters, the preparation for Group Discussion (GD) -do’s and do not’s and Personal Interviews (PI) is the next step once OJEE/JEE/CAT/MAT/XAT is finished. Even skilled speakers are nervous during a GD.
What is Group Discussion?
As the name implies, a group discussion is a conversation on a certain subject. GDs are more like conversations than debates where you have to defend your position. As vital as listening to other participants in GDs is responding with logical, pertinent comments that advance the topic or refute the prevailing viewpoints. A good GD gives everyone in the group the opportunity to voice their opinions.
The most assured of the group is typically very careful not to speak too much in the group discussion and students who find public speaking difficult worry that this will lower their score.
To help you perform to the best of your ability, we have created a list of recommended practices.
Do’s in a Group Discussion:
Gather Your Points:
One can get a head start by starting a group conversation, but only after you have gathered and categorized your ideas. Start off by clearly addressing the entire group. Usually, there is a window of time for preparation. Note down any important ideas that occur to you. Also, don’t forget to include any outrageous claims you might want to make.
Since it’s likely that someone else will speak on the issues you’ve noted, you may rely on the original points to advance the conversation. Finally, take into account that if your arguments are pertinent, understandable, and succinct, people will pay attention to you.
Keep Your Ground:
It’s crucial to use a reasonable, polite, and respectful tone when making a point. Vocal modulation – the change in voice speed and pitch – should be the main focus here. Be careful not to speak too loudly or appear too weak.
Be patient and do not rush through making your remarks or wait until the very last minute to speak. Understanding the distinction between aggressive and assertive behavior is also crucial. It is not advisable to argue verbally with someone one-on-one. One can politely disagree with others, though.
Observe, Listen And Speak:
When the group discussion is already underway, observe what others are saying and quickly come up with new facts to back up your position. This will require a lot of work, but with a lot of reading and mock GDs with friends, it can be learned. Ask the group for a chance to speak if you are not given the chance to do so. Invite those who haven’t got a chance to speak as well.
If you’re given an ambiguous subject, think creatively and come up with as many possible interpretations as you can. Assessors appreciate learning new ideas and opposing viewpoints.
Do Not’s in a Group Discussion :
Avoid Wasting Too Much Time:
Speaking for 30–40 seconds during a general discussion (group discussion) that typically lasts 15–20 minutes. The recommended number of repetitions is 5-7. Before you speak, consider what you’re about to say. You are being considered and heard. Don’t repeat your points, make them overly long, or make them unimportant. If someone else is going down a route that isn’t important, respectfully step in and stop them.
Avoid Personal Opinions:
Personal opinions, past experiences, and insights are typically not pertinent in a GD. Stay factual and impartial throughout the dialogue. Make it simpler for other people to participate. Avoid talking endlessly about your personal beliefs. Remember that this is a group discussion. Give others a chance to speak as well.
Group discussions might help you land your dream job as well as succeed in the MBA admissions process. It assists you in getting over your nervousness and makes your viewpoint more prominent. You can think in novel and varied ways thanks to GD. It is a wonderful chance to consider and embrace divergent ideas. GD helps you better understand your own strengths and weaknesses.
So go ahead and crack your GD.
Good Luck!
