Students’ Speak: 10 things to keep in mind to excel in GD round

By: Ambika Sur

There is no shortcut to excel your group discussion skills; the only way is practice and active participation. Keep improving yourself while learning from you and other mistakes.

“Don't raise your voice, improve your argument." – Desmond Tutu

Group discussion is performed when 7-10 people with similar ideas or interest gather in a place to share among each other. The purpose is to solve a problem or share ideas. GD is a mandatory part of selection now as it helps to assess the skill sets of the candidates like communication, leadership, managing, team building, social, problem-solving skills and the presence of mind. In short, GD is the best way to examine the candidate’s soft skill and the ability to adjust to several situations.

GD Preparation Tips

1. Communication: I am mentioning it as the very first parameter to start the GD. If you have good communication skill then you will have the confidence and urge to start and conclude the GD. So, if you feel like you are weak, then start improving from this moment and even if you a good at it then keep enriching your vocabulary.
2. Content: Next to communication, the equally important parameter to excel in group discussion is your content. With a good communication skill you can start and conclude a GD but without the content, you can’t participate in the group discussion actively. The only way to enrich your content is by staying up to date by reading newspapers and articles. But don’t just always talk about facts and figures, along with it you should also present some of your point of views as it will make you stand out from the GD crowd.
3. Introduction and conclusion: Never miss the chance to introduce the GD topic. It is easiest and carries a good point as it instantly attracts the evaluator or panellist. Even if you are not that confident about the topic then also start the GD confidently with basic lines. For concluding keep a track on time. If you see the group is crossing the allotted time limit then instantly make the conclusion. Keep in mind if someone has already concluded then don’t continue or add any more lines after that.
4. Posture: Good content and appreciative communication skill won’t make you gain all the points. The way you are presenting yourself while the GD goes on is equally important. Sit straight while the process goes on but be comfortable. Mentally be there in the discussion. Don’t be restless and show any hint of nervousness through your expressions. Just sit relaxed and listen.
5. Formally dressed and well groomed: Improper dressing will deduct your points heavily. Dress in completely formal. One very important point that I always share is about your socks. While GD you have to sit and your entire outfit will be visible so proper shoes and socks is important. Avoid wearing ankle-length socks as you skin will be visible once you sit for the GD. Definitely follow the grooming tips to look more ready and formal. Keep an eye on your hair and nails. Girls should not over do makeup. Keep your accessories and jewellery as minimum as possible. Don’t forget to carry a small note pad and a pen.
6. Listen: While participating in GD you have to make your mind do multitasking. As you have to think and generate your next points at the same time you have to listen to others to continue the discussion and keep an eye if the GD is going off track.
7. Be spontaneous: Don’t just listen or think, also keep on joining the discussion. In a GD of 10 minutes you should surely speak 3-4
8. Voice modulation: Your voice will make you the hero or the villain of the GD. Same point if you are presenting in a strong yet humble voice it will be accepted more by all than is any point presented in a rude way. Your modulation of voice will also express your leadership skills.
9. Acknowledgement: All through the discussion don’t forget to acknowledge your colleagues and the panellists. This is another way to show off your communication and soft skill abilities.
10. Leadership skills: Even if you are getting continuous chance to speak and you are ready with your points still don’t over speak. In every group few people always prevail who hardly gets and makes a chance to speak. So, sometimes if you get a chance to speak then pass that to them. It will also add points in your bag and showcase your leadership skills.

There is no shortcut to excel your group discussion skills; the only way is practice and active participation. Keep improving yourself while learning from you and other mistakes. Stay updated by reading news and articles as good content on your fingertips is an inevitable way to boost your confidence. Just keep pushing yourself and surely you will make it.

As you are have read the entire article and came this far so you definitely deserve a bonus point. Bonus tip – once the group discussion starts don’t look at the panellist and keep continuous eye contact with all your colleagues mainly the person who is speaking.

About the Author:

Ambika Sur is a student at Lovely Professional University pursuing her MBA with agriculture background. She is continuously working on her technical and managerial skills to achieve an exceptional career in the corporate world. She has completed a live project at Metro Cash and Carry and marketing intern at Agronxt.