Structure of  a Group Discussion

Group Discussion is a personality test which is used for the mass elimination of candidates in highly competitive interviews.  Let it be civil service, defense, IT sector, finance, B-Schools… every where GD forms an integral part of the interview. So it is an unavoidable element to succeed in interviews... Candidates will be grouped into members, say around5-15. A topic or an issue for discussion will be provided. They are expected to have a discussion on the given topic for a maximum of 30 minutes. One of the members in the group introduces the topic or say addresses the issue. Followed by this a discussion happens where in each candidate puts forward his point of view about the topic. Finally when it is time for conclusion, one of them summarizes the ideas, viewpoints and concepts presented by each candidate.

Starting up a GD is a high profit- high loss strategy. If you are not sure about the topic and conversing on a superficial level, then chances are meager, that you are going to make a good impression. On the other hand, if you are confident about the topic, you will even end up getting bonus points. So if you are looking forward to make lasting impression, then you should keep yourself knowledgeable and ready to speak anytime.

As one of the candidates finishes introduction, each member takes up the opportunity to present his point of view about the topic of concern. Be proactive; don’t wait for anyone to provide you with an opportunity to speak. You should speak by making your own choice and not by chance. Be very crisp, clear and confident about what you have to speak. Use simple language.

Finally when the time calls for the conclusion of the GD, remember to summarize the whole discussion. Do not add any new points or leave an open ended conclusion.

The parameters generally taken for evaluation are

1.      Personality

2.      Knowledge

3.      Communication Skills

4.      Leadership Skills

Personality manifestation takes into account your appearance, dress code, mannerisms, behavioral skills… Your body language speaks more than what you think, so while participating in GD sit back and sit straight in the chair. Do not cross your legs or put one leg over the other.

Knowledge is power. However good your communication skills are, if you are unaware of the topic, you will turn into the myth breaker, “Ignorance is BLISS”. The best way to stand out is by systematic reading of newspapers, journals, magazines. You should have a nose for news with regard to the issues happening at the national and international level in the avenues of politics, sports, science, economics, entertainment……

Communication Skill pin points to the keenness to speak and listen effectively in a group. The language you speak, the words you utter all is under check. Fluency of the language is vital when compared with that of accent. Your voice should be well toned and modulated. Do not stammer or fumble. While speaking makes sure that you are assertive and not aggressive. The easiest way to become an effective communicator is only by PRACTICE, PRACTICE, and PRACTICE.

Leadership Skill is not the power to command but the capability to inspire, influence and inculcate team spirit amongst the group members. A leader takes up the initiative, gives the moral courage and takes criticism at a constructive level. Leader is he who stands tall and not he who stands apart.

To come out of a GD with flying colors is an easy job by simply being confident, knowledgeable, assertive and proactive in speaking.  Always put a smile on face that will make everyone around you feel amicable. Remember smile is a curve that sets everything straight.

 [ Check the videos in the links given below, it will help you more]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gcsZ9H2I6s&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5b3n2WFjVE&feature=related