GROUP DISCUSSION 1.3

 GROUP DISCUSSION 1.3

[Process of GD contd.]

 

a. Illogical Arguments lead to gaps in reasoning in GD.

b. Identify the off-track discussion and avoid it.

c. It’s responsibility of each group member to keep the discussion on track.

d. Remain logical and systematic and ensure the smooth flow of discussion.

e. Avoid irrelevant points and hasty comments.

GUIDELINES:

• Focus attention on the main objective of the GD
• Stick to the time-schedule
• If possible intervene if the group wanders too far 
• Notice off-track discussion politely
• Avoid illogical argument 

a. To participate effectively, one must have the etiquette of Verbal Communication Skills.

b. Ability to speak confidently and convincingly is essential in GD.

c. Keep your discussion short, simple, precise and direct.

GUIDELINES:

• Give only essential information
• Avoid unnecessary details, jumbled ideas and issues
• Express clearly
• Add relevant examples, valid personal experiences and facts
• Be an effective presenter 

 

a. Intensive listening skill is highly required to participate in GD.

b. Active Listening requires intense concentration and conscious effort to understand and evaluate others’ ideas.

c. Your listening ability depends on your attitude towards the information, speaker and purpose.

GUIDELINES:

• Try to acquire information
• Also understand the speaker’s reasoning
• Have a Learning Attitude
• Be an Active Listener 

Non verbal Communication is an integral part of verbal communication. 

The process of communication without using words is non verbal communication. 

It includes facial expression, posture, gestures, eye contact etc. 

It reflects individual emotions, feelings and attitude.  

GUIDELINES: 

• Maintain eye contact while listening to others.
• Show confidence while presenting your views.
• Recognize the power of non verbal messages and Use them effectively.

  Dos & Don’ts

a. Define the Topic/ Issue and Interpret It.

b. Keep Your Points Simple and Understandable to Others.

c. Be Polite and Courteous.

d. Maintain Friendly and Pleasant Atmosphere throughout the GD.

e. Be Clear in Expressing Your Point of View.

f. Look at and Address all the Group Members of while Expressing Your Point of View.

g. Emphasize the Points which You Consider Significant.

h. Be brief and Speak with Proper Pronunciation.

i. Keep the Discussion on Track.

j. Keep Your Mind Focused all the time on What was being said.

k. Intervene Politely.

l. Try to Conclude within the Scheduled Time.

m. Summarize the Main Points at the end.

a. Neither Raise Your Voice too High Nor Speak too Softly

b. Don’t Become Monotonous.

c. Don’t Show Emotional Outburst.

d. Don’t Display Over-excitement or Anger.

e. Don’t Become Aggressive in Presenting Your Views.

f. Don’t Become Autocratic.

g. Don’t Encourage Personal Conflicts.

h. Don’t Jump to Conclusions too Quickly.

 

• If you are not sure about the topic of discussion, it’s better not to initiate. Lack of knowledge or wrong approach creates a bad impression. Instead, you might adopt the ‘Wait & Watch’ attitude. Listen attentively to others, may be you would be able to come up with a point or two later.
• A GD is a formal occasion where slangs are to be avoided.Language used should be simple, direct and straight forward. 
• Knowledge is strength. A candidate with good reading habits has more chances of success.
• Power to convince effectively is another quality that makes you stand out among others.
• Clarity in speech and expression is yet another essential trait. 
• A GD is not a debating stage. Participants should confine themselves to express their viewpoints. In the second part of the discussion candidates can exercise their choice in agreeing, disagreeing or remaining neutral. 
• Don't interrupt a speaker when the session is on. Try to score by increasing the size and quality of your discussion; not by cutting others short. 
• Maintain rapport with fellow participants. Eye contact plays a major role. Non-verbal gestures, such as listening intently or nodding while appreciating someone's viewpoint speak of you positively. 
• Communicate with each and every candidate present. While speaking don't keep looking at a single member. Address the entire group in such a way that everyone feels you are speaking to him or her.

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