Cracking The Group Discussion
Why do people join the group?! Of course, there are many possible
answers. But the one, that is most relevant to us contextually is, that
it is impossible to survive without being a part of group--be it in
personal life or be it in professional life.
Group Discussion - one of the methods of selection for job - is widely used now a days by many employers. The primary reason for testing a candidate by this method is to know if he / she is capable enough to communicate across her ideas in a group. Because as a part of any professional job, one is required to communicate in meetings, presentations and so on. So, it is not enough to be able to communicate effective and successfully in a one to one dialogue (e.g. in interviews), one must be able to communicate well in a group too.
Cracking the group interview is generally very tricky, because of its inherent structure - a lot of people are vying for attention at the same time. Let us look at some the "tips" that can help you "sail through" the Group Discussion. Please remember, these tips are generic in nature and one must use one's discretion while applying this knowledge in a real life situation.
1. Try to play multiple roles in a Group Discussion: When you are a part of GD (Group Discussion), the one quality that the jury looks for in all candidates is -- how many roles he / she can play. So, it is generally good to start the GD -- that shows your leadership skill. Then, you can play the role of coordinator by continuously making sure that the discussion is always on the right track. You can play the role of troubleshooter, by making sure that two angrily arguing people calm down. You can be an idea champion, sometimes the group runs out of points and if you give a new idea or context for discussion, that is considered to be a good role to play. The last (and never the least -- as always!) is to conclude the discussion. The one concluding the discussion also plays an important role.
2. Stick "To the Point": Many candidates have a wrong belief that the best way to succeed in a GD is to speak "As much As Possible". Wrong! The arguments you make must be related to the core discussion topic of GD. Bringing in irrelevant points is considered to be a poor trait in a GD.
3. Run out of petrol?: At times, you may have to be a part of GD where you do not know much about the topic or theme of GD. Or someone may cover the points you were about to raise! What to do then? Keep mum? No my friend, while speaking too much may harm you in a GD, speaking nothing will definitely go against you! Because that will prove you are unable to communicate across group. So, if you do not have any point, cleverly paraphrase the important points of other candidates. Say, I agree with Mr. / Ms. XYZ and then say the same thing he or she said, using alternate expression.
4. Never Get Angry: Whatever you do, you cannot get angry! Remember, this is a professional discussion, and you cannot be direct or personal during this process. Do not insult anyone or avoid making derogatory or discriminatory remarks about anyone or anything. That is surely going to fail you! So do not lose your temper under any circumstances. If someone abuses you, handle such person graciously -- remember his or her anger will harm her candidature only and your composure will benefit your candidature at that point of time.
5. Be logical in sequencing your arguments: Only good arguments are not enough, you must sequence them logically in order to have a professional impact. B must follow A and C must follow B. It cannot be vice versa.
6. Discuss on facts: Have a scientific temper and discuss all the details based on facts rather than beliefs. Especially, do not bring in your religious beliefs into discussion. Religion is for personal well being -- no need to drag it into a professional discussion (as far as possible.)
Well, these are the points that are in my mind as of now. Feedback is welcome at pvariya@gmail.com
Thanks!
Group Discussion - one of the methods of selection for job - is widely used now a days by many employers. The primary reason for testing a candidate by this method is to know if he / she is capable enough to communicate across her ideas in a group. Because as a part of any professional job, one is required to communicate in meetings, presentations and so on. So, it is not enough to be able to communicate effective and successfully in a one to one dialogue (e.g. in interviews), one must be able to communicate well in a group too.
Cracking the group interview is generally very tricky, because of its inherent structure - a lot of people are vying for attention at the same time. Let us look at some the "tips" that can help you "sail through" the Group Discussion. Please remember, these tips are generic in nature and one must use one's discretion while applying this knowledge in a real life situation.
1. Try to play multiple roles in a Group Discussion: When you are a part of GD (Group Discussion), the one quality that the jury looks for in all candidates is -- how many roles he / she can play. So, it is generally good to start the GD -- that shows your leadership skill. Then, you can play the role of coordinator by continuously making sure that the discussion is always on the right track. You can play the role of troubleshooter, by making sure that two angrily arguing people calm down. You can be an idea champion, sometimes the group runs out of points and if you give a new idea or context for discussion, that is considered to be a good role to play. The last (and never the least -- as always!) is to conclude the discussion. The one concluding the discussion also plays an important role.
2. Stick "To the Point": Many candidates have a wrong belief that the best way to succeed in a GD is to speak "As much As Possible". Wrong! The arguments you make must be related to the core discussion topic of GD. Bringing in irrelevant points is considered to be a poor trait in a GD.
3. Run out of petrol?: At times, you may have to be a part of GD where you do not know much about the topic or theme of GD. Or someone may cover the points you were about to raise! What to do then? Keep mum? No my friend, while speaking too much may harm you in a GD, speaking nothing will definitely go against you! Because that will prove you are unable to communicate across group. So, if you do not have any point, cleverly paraphrase the important points of other candidates. Say, I agree with Mr. / Ms. XYZ and then say the same thing he or she said, using alternate expression.
4. Never Get Angry: Whatever you do, you cannot get angry! Remember, this is a professional discussion, and you cannot be direct or personal during this process. Do not insult anyone or avoid making derogatory or discriminatory remarks about anyone or anything. That is surely going to fail you! So do not lose your temper under any circumstances. If someone abuses you, handle such person graciously -- remember his or her anger will harm her candidature only and your composure will benefit your candidature at that point of time.
5. Be logical in sequencing your arguments: Only good arguments are not enough, you must sequence them logically in order to have a professional impact. B must follow A and C must follow B. It cannot be vice versa.
6. Discuss on facts: Have a scientific temper and discuss all the details based on facts rather than beliefs. Especially, do not bring in your religious beliefs into discussion. Religion is for personal well being -- no need to drag it into a professional discussion (as far as possible.)
Well, these are the points that are in my mind as of now. Feedback is welcome at pvariya@gmail.com
Thanks!
