Group discussion is a method used to evaluate candidates for jobs or academic programs through discussion of a topic among 4 or more participants. It allows assessment of soft skills like communication, listening, and ability to logically present views. The document outlines the meaning and purpose of group discussion, what is tested, benefits, and guidelines for participation. Key points include actively listening to others, making fact-based arguments, accepting criticism politely, and using appropriate language.

1. GROUP DISCUSSION

2. Synergy is the
highest activity of life; it creates new
untapped alternatives; it values and
exploits the mental, emotional and
psychological differences between
people
--Stephen Covey

3. Meaning of Group Discussion
The word “discuss” has been derived from the Latin
root ‘discutere’ that means ‘to shake’ or ‘strike’.
Discussion means an activity in which
a subject or theme is thoroughly shaken, inquired into
or examined in order to reach a satisfactory
conclusion or decision upon a course of action

4. TO BE DISCUSSED
Meaning of Group Disccussion
What is a Group Discussion?
Why do we Need Group Discussion?
Objectives of group discussion
Salient features
Do’s and Don’ts in group discussion
Important points to be cared
Accept criticism

5. What is Group Discussion?
Group Discussion is a kind of group activity.
 A group of 4 or more members are given a topic
or a situation.
 Given a few minutes to think about the same.
 Followed by discussion amongst themselves for 15-20
minutes.
 Methodology to test soft skills of the candidates required in
an organization

6. Why Do We Need Group Discussion?
It helps us to understand a subject in depth.
It improves one’s ability to analyze.
It helps in devising solution to problem.
It helps the group to make a particular decision.
It gives you the chance to hear other member’s
ideas.
It improves your listening skills.
It increases your confidence in speaking.
It can change your attitude.

7. Salient Features of Group Discussion
Group Discussion, as the name itself indicates is a
group activity carried out by participating
individuals. It is an exchange of ideas among the
individuals of a group on a specific topic.
It is used as reliable, testing device - mainly as a tool
to assess all the candidates in a group at one go -in
order to select the best in comparative perspective.
Group Discussion is an informal discussion in which
participants of the same educational standard
discuss a topic of current interest

8. It is also known as leaderless discussion. It means
its aim is to find out the natural leadership level
of the candidates.

9. When does a GD takes place?
Academic/carrier related interviews.
Professional job oriented interviews.
Establishing an understanding on a subject while
studying it.
Planning and executing decision making in an
organization.
Reviewing the progress of a project.

10. What does the GD test you in?
Body language
Communication skills
Self confidence
Team skills
Listening ability
Ability to present your views logically
Time management

11. Benefits in Group Discussion
Stimulation of thinking in a new way
Expansion of knowledge
Understanding of your strengths and
weaknesses.
Your true personality gets revealed and the
qualities of leadership crystallize.
It also provides a platform to express yourself.
Learn teamwork.

12. Do’s in a Group Discussion
Be precise to the subject of discussion.
Make rational points and support them through
a substantial reasoning.
Listen to the other participants carefully.
Whatever you say must be with a logical flow
and validate it with an example in realistic terms.
Modulate your volume, pitch and tone of
speaking.

13. Be an active and a dynamic participant.
Talk with confidence and self assurance.
Be considerate to the feelings of others.
Try to grab for your turn whenever possible.

14. Don’ts in a Group Discussion
Don’t be shy/nervous and don’t get deviated
from your topic of discussion.
Stay firm on your opinions.
Example-if you are speaking for the topic, don't
get against it.
Don’t make fun of any participant even if his
arguments are funny.

15. Don’t repeat and use irrelevant materials.
Dump your jealousy or animosity.
Avoid constant objections to other people’s
arguments.
Say no to a pessimistic approach.

16. Important points in Group
Discussion
Be Assertive: An assertive person is the one
who is honest and careful about not hurting
others ‘self-respect’.
A patient listener: listening to other person is a
characteristic of showing appreciation.
Right language: Words can make friends as
well as enemies and a right word at the right
time give best results.
Be analytical and fact-oriented: It is necessary
to make necessary points which can be
relevant to the topic and supported logically.

17. Accept Criticism
If any member of the group criticizes or disapproves
a point, it is unwise to get upset or react sharply.
In case the criticism is flimsy, the same can be
pointed out politely.
Maximize participation: one must try to contribute
fully, vigorously and steadily throughout the
discussion.
Show leadership abilities: take the initiative to start
the topic and raise your voice.

18. Accept someone’s point of view.
Praise the argument.
Accept the contradicts views.
Express your arguments with examples, facts or
statistics.
Express yourself without hurting others feelings.

19. SOME SUGGESTIONS
Never try to bluff and avoid being hypocrite.
Practice group discussion with friends on different topics.
Always Remember! Speech is a powerful weapon.
It isn’t an art but a skill. So be patient while learning it.
Keep your knowledge of current affairs up to date

20. Thank You