Group Discussion is a formal round moderated by panelists. It is nothing but a tool used by companies to gauge a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively. In this blog, we have gathered 12 quick group discussion tips to help you clear the round. These are basic tips for campus recruitment GD rounds.
As you know, GD or Group Discussion round is one of the most dreaded elimination rounds in the entire recruitment process for freshers. In reality, it is not as tough as it seems. Follow these tricks to get more marks in your group discussion round.
Tip 1: Pay attention to your body language
The first impression is often the last. Make sure you make a good one. While in a Group Discussion, follow the basics of sitting up straight, look everyone in the eye while making your point and listen attentively to others while they speak. Don’t be too animated (waving your arms frantically or making gestures that are loud). Also, NEVER twiddle with your pen or stare blankly at the ceiling when others in the group are talking. Look at them while they speak and show that you’re interested in what they have to contribute, even if you have to pretend.
Bottomline: Make eye contact with everyone on the table while they speak or while you speak. This shows that you’re alert.
Tip 2: Be courteous with fellow speakers
Remember that one of the key traits GD recruiters look for is team spirit. Make sure you’re courteous to others in the group. Make your point but avoid cutting in when others are talking.
Additionally, do not use negative terms like “I disagree” or “That’s incorrect”.
Using milder forms of disagreement like “Adding another perspective to what you just contributed” or “Looking at it from another angle”, not only displays your positive personality but also shows you’re a team worker.
Bottomline: Talk in ‘business English’. Don’t forget to thank your recruiters while exiting the GD room to leave a great impact.
Tip 3: Be confident and keep adding 'good' points
The point you thought would make you stand out just got stolen! The guy sitting on your right is screaming his lungs out. You feel you’re losing control of the situation. Do not panic. The panelists can see how you react to tense circumstances like these. Hence, relax. Breathe. Compose yourself. And jump right into the Group Discussion with a new point, like nothing happened.
Bottomline: This is the only chance you get to prove yourself. Do or die trying.
Tip 4: Ensure that your words make sense
While it is important to make a substantial number of points and leave a mark on the panelists, it is equally important that you talk sense. Blabbering gibberish never fetches points. If you feel that you’re unaware of the topic, allow others to speak first. Take a cue from what they have to offer and make your own points. In the worst case, rephrase what your group mates had to offer and reiterate their points. If you feel you didn’t have much to contribute, summarize the discussion.
Bottomline: Choose your words wisely.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to start
If you are well versed with the topic announced and there is a lot you have to offer, pat yourself on the back (well, mentally). Jot down the key points and be the beginner of the group discussion. That way, you get an opportunity to lead the discussion, heading it to a meaningful point of your choice and convenience.
Bottomline: Well begun is a job half done!
Tip 6: Use supporting statistics and examples
Using famous quotes or examples to back up your points in a group discussion will prompt panelists to keep note of your cognizance. Also, the use of statistical data to corroborate your viewpoint fetches further brownie points. It is not that hard after all, is it?
Bottomline: Read well before you appear for a Group Discussion and use your complete knowledge to your benefit.
Tip 7: Participate in mock GDs beforehand
Participating in mock Group Discussions before the D-day will help you judge yourself vis-a-vis others of similar caliber and potential (prepare these topics). Try to be a part of mock Group Discussions to open your thought process to diverse topics and make a mental note of your strengths and shortcomings.
Bottomline: Try practicing ways to overcome pitfalls in front of a mirror. Trust us, it works wonders, almost every time.
Tip 8: Brush up your GK
Some most common topics for group discussion are picked up from newspapers. Make sure you’re fully aware of whatever’s hot and happening in and around the country. If you haven’t been reading newspapers/magazines regularly, browse through websites that could give you a quick overview of the latest happenings
Bottomline: General knowledge is pivotal to get through a GD round.
Tip 9: Follow your heart
Has it ever happened that you made 6 points in a Group Discussion and got rejected while your friend made just 2 and got selected? Happens often, right? This shows that no 2 Group Discussions are the same and you may never know what exactly a company is looking for. So, don’t believe your GD coaches when they give you “Group discussion tips that command you to make at least 5 points to get noticed“. No set rules can be framed about the number of times you open your mouth in a Group Discussion.
Bottomline: Go with the flow, follow your heart. Remember, eventually, it is the quality that matters and not quantity.
Tip 10: Stay updated at all times
Just like your best friend, internet browsers can answer all your queries by suggesting top interview preparation websites in times of distress. Research online regularly to access a vast, company-specific database of authentic interview experiences shared by real interviewees. Read interview and group discussion tips submitted by genuine people who have undergone similar experiences before. Watch videos of GD recordings too. Such materials will help you ace your GD selection process.
Bottomline: Research online for GD preparation materials from time to time.
Tip 11: Acquire these crucial group discussion skills
Group discussion is a tool to test your teamwork skills, listening skills, discussion ability, subject knowledge, and communication. Intrinsic skills like reasoning, speaking and time management come in very handy. Skills that you can work upon include presentation, summarizing and people speaking
Learn more about crucial group discussion skills in detail here.
Bottomline: Get in a group of 6-8 and try out these pointers to play it cool.
Tip 12: Lastly, follow these group discussion rules
- Come prepared
- Note down the names of all the participants
- Maintain a firm posture
- Take charge of the discussion
- Retain your standing and balance
- Do not get emotional
Hope you found these group discussion tips helpful. If you feel we missed something or in case you have any suggestions, do share your comments below.
All the best!
