Group Discussion Flow

Basic concept of Group Discussion

Group Discussions are meant to judge the knowledge/communication skills, inter-personal abilities and group behaviour of the candidates. The moderaters look for verbal and non-verbal clues, clarity of thoughts, leadership traits and other inter-personal attributes of the candidates. Since during the time of Group Discussion, every aspirant is under the scanner of the moderators and evaluaters, please keep in mind that you don't display  even slightest of negative thought or gesture. The moderators have just  have only 20-25 minutes to judge the  group of aspirants which are unknown to them.  Thus, even a slightest display of negative attribute or gesture may be percieved as a flaw in your personality by the moderators who are unknown to you and are interacting with you for the very first tme.

• If you are not well informed about the topic, you need not to speak first. You should start the discussion and show your leadership only when you have utmost clearity about the topic. If have doubts or are not clear about the GD topic it is advisable to listen to a few peer members and then give your views. Half baked and unclear thoughts spoken just for the sake of speaking or participation can backfire. They can downplay your performance.
• Always be a good listener and listen patiently what others are saying. Be attentive while others are speaking, and if possible don't try to speak while somebody else is making a point. Group behaviour is not just about speaking or giving your own views, it is also about accepting the ideas of the others. It is a good idea to quote others when you speak while supporting, criticising them or building up a point.
• Be natural and talk normally. Avoid using flowery language, just to grab the attention of the moderator or to sound intellectual. Avoid using terms that you yourself are not clear about. At times moderators ask the same in the interview. Be yourself- it always gives the best results.
• The panel observes meticulously as to who takes the lead, who has deep knowledge, who encourages others, who has the leadership qualities and team spirit. The panel assesses your contribution, so be positive. Try to follow through on the point you want to make, and express your contentions clearly, concisely in an assertive way.
• At time it might happen that you come up with an idea which is unacceptable to the group or your peer members find it absurd. Do not panic at that time. Retreating form your words and ideas is also an art. But keep in mind the retreat should be graceful. 
• Avoid arguing haughtily; be polite while presenting your views. Don’t make personal comments. Support and praise others’ viewpoints when they merit it and avoid making fools of them, Stay calm and composed. Above all, listen attentively.

Attention

In a group Discussion, the candidates are rated and evaluated on the basis of their initiative, leadership qualities, enthusiasm, co-operative attitude, knowledge on the topic, analyzing power, communication skills and team spirit attributes. Have co-operative attitude and demonstrate your team spirit, that is, taking others along. Unwarrantedly domineering behavior may negate your chances of success. Listen calmly and speak to the point.