Basics of Group Discussion

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