Students Speak: Do not panic and answer calmly in any situation.
By: Ashwathy Nair
The topics for group discussion round could be based on current affairs, technologies or social issues. In order to excel in this round, you will have to be updated with the current news around the globe.
Almost all colleges have a group discussion and personal interview round for the shortlisted students. Hence preparation for this round is of utmost importance. In this article, I will be suggesting a few preparation methods and tips based on personal experience.
The topics for group discussion round could be based on current affairs, technologies or social issues. In order to excel in this round, you will have to be updated with the current news around the globe. Put yourself into the habit of reading - be it from a newspaper or from an app that updates about the recent news. Have a broad knowledge of technologies being used in industries and their applications. Be also aware of the social issues and have your points ready for it. There are various sources like McKinsey that would give you a good knowledge around these topics.
The group discussion panelists would take into account parameters like:
- Communication skills: You need to have good communication skills which include having a decent vocabulary.
- Content: The panelist always looks for good content. If you do not enter the GD many times but your content is good enough for the times you have spoken, then it would suffice.
- Body Language: The panelist always takes into consideration the body language of the applicant. Having a good straight posture while sitting would fetch you good marks.
- Entry into the discussion: It is very important that you enter the discussion as early as possible.
- Performance as a team: The panelist usually observes how good you are in the team. If someone is trying to make a point but could not enter since the whole group is not letting him, your gesture of telling the group to allow that student to talk would give a good impression.
Group discussion panel usually consists of 2-3 people. The time given would be around 15 minutes. A mixture of all the points mentioned above would give you good marks.
For personal Interview round, you need to be thorough with your CV. Most of the questions revolve around it. Be well-versed with the current technologies and general knowledge. You are also evaluated for your communication skills and thinking ability. The panel consists of 1-2 people.
There are a few challenges that you might face during Group discussion and personal interview round. In a group discussion, there might be a situation where nobody is letting you enter the discussion. In such a case, raise your voice a little and say a catchy sentence. Do not leave a chance to enter at the right moment. If the discussion is turning into a fight, do not be a part of the fight. Make your point at the start or after the fight ends. Even during your personal interview, there might be a case where the interview is more like a stress interview. During such situations, do not panic, take your time and answer calmly.
For a personal interview round, always be prepared for the question ‘Tell me about yourself’. Make sure you get the attention of the panel at this point itself. Be thorough with all the points mentioned in your CV. For example, if you have mentioned any project in which used Java, be sure that you know the basics of Java and be able to justify your project.
The overall group discussion and personal interview round experience is always memorable. The performance in this round is very important and hence be prepared with all the topics. Do not panic and answer calmly in any situation.
About the Author:
Ashwathy completed her engineering from University of Mumbai. She is currently pursuing MBA-ITBM course. She likes to help aspirants in clearing their doubts.
