GROUP DISCUSSION

WHAT IS A GROUP?
A number of individuals or things considered together because of similarities. (Oxford Dictionary)

DISCUSSION
The action or process of talking about something in order to reach a decision or to exchange ideas: Participation in a systematic way on a particular topic..

..not a wrestling match to score points

KEY POINTS
Use positive affirmations Begin with the strongest note Come directly to the point, do not beat around the bush Volume Intonation, Tone Pronunciation Diction Rate

Difference between discussion and debate

Debate Either Winning or Losing. Discussion Expression of your point of view and respecting another's point of view. A debate is a perfect situation for expressing intense emotions. A GD, however, calls for a lot more maturity and logic.

Why Group Discussion????

First thing Group Discussion is used for mass elimination! And second thing group discussion selection criteria s are based on actual company requirements.

What does the GD test you in?

Body language Communication skills Self confidence Team skills Listening ability Ability to present your views logically Time management

What actually happens in a GD?

Initiation / Introduction Body of the group discussion Summarization / Conclusion

Initiation Techniques
Initiating a GD is a high profit-high loss strategy. Initiate one only if you have in-depth knowledge about the topic at hand. Do not stammer/ stutter/ quote wrong facts and figures.

How to make a good first impression?

Quotes Definition Question Shock statement Facts, figures and statistics Short story General statement

Don'ts

Do

You don t understand You are wrong I think Please listen to me

Let me explain

I suggest I recommend

What? What did you say?

Pardon me Could you please repeat However

But

'I strongly object' or 'I disagree'.

'I would like to share my views on...' or 'One difference between your point & mine...' or "I beg to differ with you"

Organize your thoughts .

 What is the normal duration of a GD? How many panel members are there to evaluate? Is there time given for preparation after the topic is given and before starting the GD

 Should I address the panel or the group members? What is the seating arrangement like? How should I address the other group members? Should I encourage others to speak up?