Do's & Don'ts of Group Discussion Round of Top MBA Colleges

We know that on the list of GD etiquettes, the need to maintain a polite tone ranks higher than any other skill. What else? Check out the dos and don'ts of a group discussion for MBA admission.

Group Discussion (GD) is a widely accepted candidate assessment method for MBA programmes. A winning performance at the GD stage is critical for making it to the final admission list. GDs for MBA admission are based on a variety of topics ranging from economics, business, politics, science, society to current affairs. So, it is important to stay updated with issues that affect our lives. This can be done by watching infotainment programmes, documentaries, reading books, newspapers, business/science magazines. A good grip on general knowledge and current affairs will help you sail through any topic with facts and logic.

However, the main hurdle in performing well at a GD, in not getting a chance to speak. Even though you have the subject knowledge and possess good communication skill, what if you don't get a chance to speak in a GD for MBA admission? How would you make yourself heard in a group discussion where everyone is trying to dominate the space? We know that on the list of GD etiquettes maintaining a polite tone ranks highest even as you proceed to oppose a point raised by another team member. But how do you do that when the GD turns into a fish-market scene? Don’t get caught up in the chaos, because that’s where your leadership skill, team spirit and critical thinking will be tested by way of how you manage to perform even amid a chaotic environment.

6) Maintain Positive Attitude

GD is a team activity. Be confident but do not try to dominate anyone. Remember it’s a discussion and not a debate. Ensure a positive body language. Show interest in group discussion when others are expressing their thoughts. This will make you appear as someone who is a team player.

7) Speak Sensibly

Do not speak just to hog the limelight. Don’t worry even if you speak less. It is always better to talk less but sensibly than talk more senselessly. Your thoughts should be sensible and relevant. Wasting the group’s time with your irrelevant speech or speaking without proper subject knowledge will only create a poor impression.

8) Listen Carefully to Others

Being a good listener is important to succeed in group discussions. Pay attention when others are speaking. This will help you form your argument better for a  coherent discussion and you will be able to get involved in the group positively. This way, others are also more likely to be receptive to your points.

9) Avoid Time-Consuming Details

A basic subject analysis is sufficient to put your point across. There’s no need to mention exact figures and statistics while making a reference. You get limited time in a GD, so be precise and convey your thoughts in a smart and crisp manner.

10) Keep the Discussion on Track

If you find the group is digressing from the GD topic, then take the initiative to bring the discussion back on track. Uphold group’s common objective to stick to the topic to arrive at some conclusion at the end of the group discussion. This will exhibit your leadership skills.

Read More:

• How you dress might affect your GDPI score
• Group Discussion Topics for MBA students
• 32 Common Questions Asked in Personal Interview