Tips to crack Group Discussion – The art of Speaking

The success in group discussion is as necessary as in written examination or in Interview for entering in different courses or in jobs profiles. Through group discussion, it is emphasized to check the different qualities of all the applicants such as leadership, take initiative, team spirit, effective speech etc.

What skills are judged in group discussion?

• How good you are at communication with others.
• How you behave and interact with group.
• How open minded are you.
• Your listening skill.
• How you put forward your views.
• Your leadership and decision making skills.
• Your analysis skill and subject knowledge.
• Problem solving and critical thinking skill.
• Your attitude and confidence.

There are different kinds of discussions, some discussions are based on case studies, and some are based on some specific topics. Sometimes applicants have chance to speak on a topic one by one, which is called as extempore. This is considered to be the simplest way to present you-self in front of group members. But at the time, you have to be very careful about the ideas which you are going to present.

Some useful tricks to crack GD:-

 

1) Keep eye contact while speaking:
Do not look at the evaluators only. Keep eye contact with every team member while speaking.

2) Try to Initiate the GD:
Initiating the GD is a plus point. But keep in mind – Initiate the group discussion only when you have clarity about the topic and have some topic knowledge. Speaking with improper subject knowledge is considered to be negative point. So don’t rush stay cool while presenting.

3) Allow others to speak:
Do not interrupt anyone in-between while speaking. Even if you don’t agree with his/her thoughts do not snatch their chance to speak. Instead make some notes and clear the points when it’s your turn.

4) Speak clearly:
Speak politely and clearly. Use simple and understandable words while speaking. Don’t be too aggressive if you are disagreeing with someone. Express your feelings calmly and politely.

5) Discussion should be on track:
If by any means group is distracting from the topic or goal then simply take initiative to bring the discussion on the track. Make all group members aware that you all need to come to some conclusion at the end of the discussion. So stick to the topic.

6) Positive attitude:
Be confident. Do not try to dominate anyone. Keep positive body language. Show interest in discussion.

7) Speak sensibly:
Do not speak just to increase your speaking time. Don’t worry even if you speak less. Your thoughts should be sensible and relevant instead of irrelevant speech.

8 ) Listen carefully to others:
Speak less and listen more! Pay attention while others are speaking. This will make coherent discussion and you will get involved in the group positively. You will surely make people agree with you.

9) No need to go into much details:
Some basic subject analysis is sufficient. No need to mention exact figures while giving any reference. You have limited time so be precise and convey your thoughts in short and simple language.

10) Formal dressing:
Do not take it casually. No fancy and funny dressing. You should be comfortable while speaking in group. Positive gesture and body language will make your work easy.