Group Discussion & PI

Types of GD
• Factual Topic – political economic social issues
Test ability to reason, depth of study, ability to influence
Ex: Can GST contribute to a sustainable growth and impact on
GDP
• Controversial Topic – that can bring arguments, polarized
views
Tests ability to resolve conflicts, maturity, interpersonal skills,
etc.
• Abstract Topic – most difficult, tests thinking ability, case
based group discussions, confronting situations
 Purpose of GD
• Ability to work as a team
• Communication skills, including active
listening
• Leadership & assertiveness
• Innovation, creativity and lateral thinking
• Flexibility
• Reasoning
• Ability to influence
 Key steps to succeed in GD
• Preparation
 Recent news and current events
 Communication skills
 Practice speaking
 Involve in group activities
 Seek feedback
 Practice mock sessions

 Be well groomed
 Confident & calm
 Know the names of participants
 Come across as balanced, polite and matured
 Speaker dynamics
• Responsibility of first speaker
• Responsibility of leader
• The once who concludes
 Dos
• Be alert
• Be polite
• Mind your body language, gestures and expressions
• Speak correctly, confidently and with facts
• The other participant is your team not adversary
• Maintain eye contact
• Speak one at a time
 Don’t
• Disrespect or yell
• Monopolize the discussion
• Speaking for longer period does not mean you are
creating a good impression
• Brag or interrupt someone
• Scramble to be first or have a last say
• Talk with partner while someone else is talking
• Loose your temper