Group discussions are used by companies to assess candidates' interpersonal and communication skills. They involve 5-10 participants discussing a topic for a limited time. Preparation includes researching current affairs, practicing speaking skills, and observing other discussions. During discussions, participants should communicate their views clearly while actively listening to others. Successful participants demonstrate leadership, persuasiveness, and the ability to work with a team. Proper etiquette like staying on topic, accepting criticism politely, and not interrupting others is important. Regular practice and controlling emotions are keys to performing well in group discussions.

1. GROUP DISCUSSION

3. Characteristics of Group Discussion

4. Prerequisites of a Group Discussion

5. Benefits in Group Discussion

6. Why Companies have GD?

7. How to Prepare for GD

8. Assessment of GD

9. Discussion Etiquette

10. Important points in Group Discussion

12. Characteristics of Group Discussion The term suggests a discussion or exchange of views and thoughts among a group of persons. The group will have members around 5-10 who will express their views, ideas freely in a friendly manner, on the given topic. The abilities of the members of the group is measured on certain scale as time limit, skills, knowledge etc.

13. Prerequisites of a Group Discussion Topics given by panelists Planning and preparation Knowledge with self-confidence Communication skills/ power of speech Presentation Body Language and personal appearance Being calm and cool

14. Benefits in Group discussion It helps you to have better understanding of the subject It stimulates critical thinking It helps the group to make decisions consensually. It improves your listening skills. It increases your confidence in speaking. It helps you to understand your strength and weakness. It improves your Leadership Skills.

15. Why Companies have GD? Companies conduct group discussion to check Interactive skills Ability to work in team Flexibility Neuroticism Listening Extrovertism Leadership Your Analytical skills and Subject knowledge Your Problem solving and Critical thinking skills. Your attitude and confidence.

16. How to Prepare for GD GD preparation involves three basic aspects: Group Speaking Preparation Content Preparation Listening preparation

17. How to Prepare for GD Group Speaking Preparation: Enhance your vocabulary to enhance your fluency, practice tone modulation, and try to speak in front of mirror on some topic. Content Preparation: Choose the current affair topic from different perspectives like personal, social, political, cultural, academics, etc. Listening preparation: Participate in some discussions as an active observer and try to evolve one’s thought process by adding different perspectives.

18. Assessment of GD Leadership Skills - Ability to take initiative and able to lead, influence and carry the team along to achieve the organization's objectives. Communication Skills -Candidates will be assessed in terms of clarity of thought, expression and aptness of language. Interpersonal Skills– Interacting and managing the people is an important aspect of any job. Persuasive Skills - The ability to analyze and persuade the people.

19. Discussion Etiquette DO’S Take initiative. Stay with the topic . Think before you speak Make original points & support them by substantial reasoning .

20. Discussion Etiquette DO’S Listen to the other participants actively & carefully. Be polite to the group Regulate you voice through tone modulation Try to get your turn Be aware of your Kinesics.

21. Discussion Etiquette DON’T Argue Be nervous or shy ;it isolates u from G.D Interrupt another participant before his claim or discussion is over Speak in favor ; example: Establish your position and stand by it stubbornly

22. DON’T Change opinions Don’t make mockery of any participant even if his arguments are funny. Excessive Use of personal anecdotes and experiences. Discussion Etiquette

23. Important Points In Group Discussion Be Assertive: An assertive person is direct , honest and careful about not to hurt others ‘self-respect’. Be Patient Listener: Listening to another person is one way of showing appreciation. Use Appropriate Language : Words can make friends & right words at the right time make the best results. Be Precise and Authentic: It is necessary to make relevant points which can be supported with facts and analyzed logically.

24. Accept Criticism If any member of the group criticizes or disapproves a point, it is unwise to get upset or react hastily. In case the criticism is flimsy, the same can be pointed out politely. Show leadership quality: A group discussion also evaluates your leadership qualities.

25. Accept Criticism Accept other's point of view Express your argument with few facts, cases, %, Newspapers publications etc. Express without hurting others feelings.

26. Suggestions Never try to bluff. Control your emotions. Focus on Quality of content rather than quantity Get noticed - But for the right reasons Practice group discussion with friends , family on different subjects. Remember !Speech is a powerful weapon.