Important points to a Group Discussion
1) Be updated with the current affairs and general awareness
Make a habit of reading newspapers like Times of India (TOI) and Economic Times and general interest and business magazines like Frontline, Outlook and Business India. Brushing up with the current affairs is a must. Being aware of general awareness, current issues, current happenings and latest news is an essential part of a personality of a person who aspire to become a bank manager. Only when he is well informed about the current facts he is able to take correct decisions. At the same time being aware of only current happenings is not enough. One must also form opinions on those happenings and issues that arise. Think about what you feel about different issues, say, terrorism. Write down your thoughts. Ask yourself why you feel that way, what are the premises underlying your thoughts and beliefs. Also question whether your point of view is based on facts, or on opinions only.
2) Read Widely:
Being an avid reader will help you in group discussions. Reading not just adds to your knowledge database, but enhances your vocabulary skills as well. Chose magazines which are rich in content. Always opt for magazines that are content rich and not just full of advertisements. Often magazines have columns which are promoting a particular institute etc. Avoid such magazines. Make a habit of reading voraciously on every subject. This will keep you ready for any topic for a discussion in GD. Your knowledge is your most important weapon in a discussion.You should have subject knowledge and be well aware of the latest happenings around you. Subject knowledge is a pre-requisite while because you will then have the power to steer the conversation to whichever direction you want to. If you can memorize some relevant data, it will be an added advantage.
3) Communication Skills: You should be well versed in your communication skills. You should have a good vocabulary and a decent command over English. Much before your actual group discussion, rehearse well. You can sit with a group of friends and choose a topic and indulge in a friendly banter. As you speak make sure that you do not talk at the top of your voice. You should be audible and clear. Remember that you are participating in a discussion which is different from a speech given out by the leaders in their rallies. Even if you disagree with the other's point of view, disagree politely. Use phrases like, 'I would like to disagree a bit here' or 'I am sorry, but I think I have a slightly different point of view'.
4) Be precise: Abstain from using irrelevant information and data from your talks during a GD. Speak precisely so that others also get a chance to put across their point of view. You have to put your point precise and to the point with a clear indication of your viewpoint which is clearly understandable by the group members and the GD Panelists as well.
5) Acquire knowledge: Stay attentive to the ideas put forward by other group members and keep writing the important points discussed during the GD. As you get a chance to speak, put forward your views about the topic. You can also agree or disagree with other's ideas, based on your knowledge about the subject. This will help you not to miss the important points when its your turn to put forth your viewpoint to the group members or the GD Panelists.
6) Support the right: Don't take a stand on either extreme when the discussion begins. It might happen that you get convinced by other's argument and want to change your stand. Respect another's opinion as well and agree with what is right, even if you initially had a different opinion. This brings our the optimistic part of your personality and help you fetch good score.
7) Speak confidently: Maintain your confidence as you speak. Establish eye contact with other members of the group and do not let your voice tremble. The pitch of the voice should be well maintained and the body language has to be controlled while speaking to the group members in a discussion. Try to moderate the discussion if any arguments arise. This is necessary to ensure that the group doesn't wander from the goal of the GD.
8) Positive body language: Your body language should not demonstrate dominance or low self confidence. Show your interest in the discussion through your gestures like bending forward a bit, nodding your head. A firm and confident body language shows ones real personality and in a group discussion positive and confident body language plays a very crucial role.
9) Opinion Formation: The process of opinion formation is incomplete without getting inputs from others. Get into the habit of discussing issues with your friends and family. Hear multiple points of view. Listen, question and argue. Express your opinion. If you are proven wrong, accept it with good grace. Modify your opinions as you go along. This will help you clear your own thought process plus it will get you into the habit of discussion.
10) Welcome others views : While discussing, learn to check your temper. Maybe you'll find others holding view which are abhorrent to you. But remember that they have a right to their opinions. Everyone does. Learn to respect their points of views even if you don't accept them. It shows maturity on your part. This will be a good training for controlling your emotions, which is of utmost importance in a GD.
11) Involve other members : Try and mobilize other people who are interested in GDs and simulate GDs. Get someone who has been through GDs before to observe it and give you feedback on your performance. It is better if the group consists of people who you don't know too well.
12) Listen to the Topic carefully: Listen to the topic carefully and understand it. Be alert and vigilant. Sometimes, the topic may be really simple but the manner, in which it is presented to you, can be baffling. The first thing that you should do after hearing the topic is by structuring it on the sheet that is given to you to make notes. You will be at an advantage if you open the discussion, but then beware of what you speak. Deviating from the main topic or passing strong statements like 'I agree/ or disagree ' should be avoided. If you can, back it up by relevant data. Know the topics that are repeated. Often, there are topics which re-appear with minute changes and minor variations. For example the issues of terrorism, gender inequality, poverty, Ayodhya conflict, liberalization and privatization, reservations in educational institutions etc. often appear as GD topics. Make sure you know these topics well and can come up with some unique, insightful points along with dates, stating facts.
13) Try and Maintain a Balance in your Tone: Besides what you are saying, remember that the panelists are observing your body language as well. If you do not agree with the other student's point of view, do not raise your tone in objection. Listen to his point of view and instead of dismissing it upfront, try and draw a common ground.
14) Listening Skills are Essential: Carefully listen to what others say. Just speaking throughout the discussion doesn't make you smart; you should also give others a chance to speak. Try and listen to him/her, respect their view point too. If the speaker is making an eye-contact with you remember to acknowledge him by saying "yes, you agree" or just by nodding your head. This will show that you are vigilant and are an active participant in the discussion.
15) Try to end and summarize the Group Discussion in the end: If you can grab the opportunity to close the discussion, then you should summarize it. If the group has not reached a conclusion try concluding it. Imagine you are driving and you have the power to accelerate or brake. Try to be that conscientious driver in a GD. Take the initiative, know when to apply your brakes and when to seize the opportunity and accelerate the conversation to reach to a desired destination; conclusion in your case.
