5 Key Strategies to Conquer a Group Discussion
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Group discussion (GD) is an integral part of most B Schools’ selection process. The motive behind conducting a GD is to test the candidate’s constructive argumentative skills. It also helps the selectors assess the candidates’ cultural fit factor, assertiveness, communication skills, and clarity of thought. Keeping this in mind, below are 5 key strategies to help you top up a GD.
- Preparation
Stay updated with current affairs, industry information, and the latest trends in your domain. Also, following stories of high achievers in your industry will give you those shining examples to quote as references to put your point across. Remember one thing, during a GD, if the selectors learn facts from you, it really scores well for you. However, the facts should be in conjunction with the point you are trying to put across.
- Sentence formulation
If English is not your first language, you need to condition your tongue days before your GD is held. This is because a lot of spontaneity is involved while speaking during a GD. Not only would you need to organize your thoughts but also formulate them in a statement so that you speak them in one go because if you hesitate in between, chances are that you will be interrupted by other candidates. This requires at least a month of practice. Sit in front of the mirror and speak on a topic for around 30 minutes. Note your tongue slippages, instances where you failed to finish your statement, and instances where you could not translate the complex idea in your mind into simple words. Try to improve on them. Record a video each day. You will be astonished to see the difference in your ability to speak crisply, confidently, and unhindered between day 1 and day 30. That is the confidence booster you need when you walk into your GD room, and you outperform it.
- First Mover advantage
It is always remarking when you initiate a GD. After the GD, it is easy for the selectors to recall your candidature if you have started. You must ensure that you start only if you understand the topic thoroughly. Utilize the initial couple of minutes given before the GD starts very well. Organize your thoughts and pointers and to be safe, formulate the entire statement ditto as you would speak it out. This would avoid pauses and fillers in your statement. Speak it out in one confident, crisp, and clear shot. As this is your first move, if this goes well, it would do wonders for your confidence to sustain the GD.
- Moderator
Another important role candidates have to play is that of a moderator. If you feel that the discussion is straying from the topic, sneak into the discussion to highlight this digression. Follow it with a relevant point and open the gates for further discussion. It sounds simple because it is simple. You can start like – “Friends, I think we should refocus on the topic…” It demonstrates your skills as a team player and shows your professional temperament and maturity.
- Discussion Etiquettes
Always have a positive body language. Your hand gestures are paid heed to by the selectors. Be sensitive to what others are saying and listen well. People often use the words “To continue on this” just to sneak out a chance to speak but what they speak is never in continuation to the earlier point. Don’t do this. Start with “I would like to raise a point” if you have to raise a fresh point. It scores you big if you actually listen to someone and relevantly support or contradict an input by your peer. Also, whenever you do not agree with someone’s opinion, oppose it positively and constructively. Do it concerning the audience.
Remember, quality wins over quantity when speaking in a GD. Make sure your points are relevant and are spoken with confidence and without interrupting anyone.
