5 Tips to Crack Group Discussion
Group Discussion is an important criterion for selection by various companies. This is because it helps the companies to analyze how you function under pressure and understand your unique way of presentation that makes you stand out. It checks how well you listen to the viewpoints of others and devise replies that overshadow their points. Hence, the importance of GD cannot be degraded or ignored and there’s a need to be aware of the nitty-gritty of GDs. The following 5 points can help you pave your way smoothly through any discussion.
1. Keep up the Eye Contact: Non-Verbal communication plays an equivalent role as verbal communication and among non-verbal forms of communication, maintaining eye contact is the most important one because your eyes show how confident you are. Remember that eye contact should be maintained with all the people in your group but not with the moderator. You should portray yourself as if you are fully immersed in the discussion. And the best way to do this is to chin up and look in the eyes of others while talking.
2. Try to Initiate GD: Initiating GD is can get you extra points as it makes your first impression favorable. You can do this by starting with a quote or by putting facts and figures from some authentic source. But always remember just for the sake of being the first one to speak don’t initiate the GD, speak only when you have good knowledge about the topic.
3. Less is More: GD is not about quantity but quality. It does not matter how much you speak but what you speak. 2–3 entries in a GD are sufficient if you have presented your opinion effectively. If you see that your points are said by someone else don’t repeat the same points because it shows that you were not paying attention when the other person was speaking.
4. Composure is the Key- Group discussions do not mean arguments. The golden rule for discussion is hard facts and a soft voice. Remember the point of GD is not only to test your knowledge and communication skills but also how you handle situations of conflicts, pressure, and stress. Don’t get provoked and be calm and composed not only when you speak but also when you are listening to others.
5. Closing Statement: Five minutes which are given before the GD to pen down your thoughts sets the foundation for the next 10 minutes. So, try making your foundations strong. This can be done by dividing the GD into 3 parts- Introduction, body language, and ending. Write crisp points under each of these headings in your notebook and while giving a closing statement you can easily summarize your points and conclude.
You will reach your destination through a smooth sail if these 5 things are kept as an anchor. All the Best!
