Myths Regarding Group Discussion....

BALASUBRAMANYA B N (CCI STUDENT....) (44679 Points)

21 July 2011

Myths Regarding Group Discussion

The following misconceptions or myths should be removed to succeed in a Group Discussion.

1. You should be Aggressive: Most candidates go to a group discussion with the false notion that they must grab the initiative to be heard. Of course, you should be audible, but that does not mean you have to shout or prevent others from speaking! You are not contesting an election campaign; you are simply involved in a conversation and do not need to shout to make your presence felt. Moreover “grabbing the initiative” does not mean that you begin the discussion, just for the sake of it. On the other hand, by giving others a chance to begin, you exhibit leadership skills, as well as an extrovert, co-operative nature. It also presents you an opportunity to gauge your “adversaries”, giving you a definite edge over them.

2. You should speak more: Remember, the listener is always in an advantageous position compared to the speaker. Although you have to speak in a group discussion, you must speak to the point. Do not unnecessarily stretch your points and become repetitive or you will project a negative image of yourself. You should speak the most relevant points within the time limit of one and a half to two minutes. The best way to ensure this is to have fairly good knowledge on the topic being discussed. In this regard, it is essential to quote examples based on facts and figures. For instance, if the topic is Electronic Media Vs Print Media, you should know how many households in India have televisions and the circulation of some well-know national dailies and magazines. This puts you in an advantageous position compared to the other participants. The bottom line is: what you speak is more important that how much you speak. Quality counts, not quantity.

3. You should speak in Favour: There is no thumb rule that if your speaking in favour of a topic you have a positive outlook. You should feel comfortable and natural while discussing a topic. Most individuals feel if they speak in favour of a topic, they stand a better chance of being selected. Often a person conducting a group discussion can give a very abstract or trivial topic. For instance, In the 21th century, India continues to live in village. In this case, most individuals will begin by saying, “I completely agree with the topic”. But it is here that the candidate projects ignorance, because there is a mass exodus of the rural population, particularly the younger generation, to urban India in search of better job opportunities

4. You should cut down your opponents: As already mentioned, listening is a better communication skill as speaking. Do not interrupt the speakers. If they speak first, it is good for you, especially if you are not familiar with the topic. Moreover if the speakers speak illogically, it goes in your favour. Besides, even if you have spoken well, but keep interrupting the other participants, it speaks volumes about your inherent insecurity. Let the speaker commit mistakes by speaking senselessly, rather than you’re interrupting the speaker. You win by default if the other speaker is off the mark.

5. You should make others agree to your point: Wrong. You have not gone to fight a legal battle that you should make others agree to your viewpoints. It is always better to say, “I agree with Mr A, however, I think…” Rather than saying, “I do not agree with Mr A…”or “How can you say..? If you disagree with everyone, everyone will disagree with you. Ultimately you will find the entire group against you, placing you in embarrassing position.

6. You should be an Individual speaker: Meaning thereby, that you have to speak your points only. You are in a group discussion, not a debate; and in a group you have to get involved. Participation is very important; so go the extra mile to help others in voicing their opinions. Look for the individual who has not spoken and motivate him/her to speak. You will create a very positive picture of yourself to the coordinator. At the same time if you feel that the discussion has turned out to be argumentative, try to restore normalcy, but not by outshouting others! Instead, convey your points in a modest, audible manner.

7. You should project yourself in style: Do not try to project what you are not. The bottom-line is BE YOURSELF. Be normal. The objective of a group discussion is to discover your traits. Do not change your pronunciation or accent and try to speak in ornamental English. Ninety-nine percent the chances are that you will get caught. An important point to note is that in trying to flaunt style individuals get carried away and thereby deviate from the topic.

Do`s and Don`ts of a Group Discussion

A) Do`s of A Group Discussion

· Listen to others. It is not necessary to initiate a Group Discussion.

· Initiate the discussion if you are familiar with the topic.

· Intervene if the discussion is turning out to be hostile. It reflects your leadership.

· Speak to the point without Repeating.

· Back your points with Facts and Figures.

· Be gentle with your presentation.

· Be Natural, Calm and Maintain your Composure.

· Be participative and Reciprocative.

· Say ‘Thank You’ before ending your presentation.

· Think before you speak.