Wednesday 23 October 2013

5 important tips to participate in Group Discussion

Group discussion has become an integral part of an interview these days. It is a platform for sharing the ideas or opinion on a particular topic and debate upon. There is a small group of candidates who participate in group discussion. They are given a topic to debate on expressing their point of view. There is a time limit after which the best candidate is selected by the judge. It is not tough to crack. Follow the tips for group discussion given below and move on.

1. Preparation: It becomes easy to prepare if you know the topic of group discussion. Find out everything about it. Read the topic thoroughly, get to know the point of view of other people on it and finally analyse and decide what you think about it. Select the words you can use to explain your point of view, look for their pronunciation and practice saying it. If possible choose someone as your mentor who can identify and correct your mistakes. In this way you can prepare well in advance before the actual session.
If the topic is not known then you can do the preparation by reading the latest issues from newspapers, internet etc. and have a thorough knowledge of the topics. It will be best if you can get any English audio lessons or English video lessons material related to the topic. The general topic is usually chosen from the current happenings so keep yourself up to date with the current events

2. Do not interrupt: Start the discussion, if possible, else try to get a chance to speak. Listen carefully to what the other candidate is saying and do not ever interrupt even if you strongly disagree. Remember it’s a discussion and not competition. In an effective discussion the participants have listen to others also other than expressing their own views.

3. Be Alert: In a group discussion alertness and presence of mind is very essential. Keep the supportive statements and facts ready while listening to other person’s though and then continue the argument. This not only shows your alertness but also the importance you give to other’s thoughts.

4. Use simple language and learn some useful phrases to participate in group discussion:
Don’t try to impress others by using high vocabulary and technical words. Use simple English language which can be easily understood by others. To make your speech effective, you can use some useful phrases like –
Giving your opinion:-Be the discussion with the phrases like “In my opinion”, If you ask me”, “As far as I am concerned” etc.

Seeking other’s opinion:- Use the phrases like “What’s your idea?”, “What do you think about it?”
On agreeing: To express agreement use the words like absolutely, exactly or the phrases like “You are absolutely right”, “That’s true”.

On Disagreeing: To express strong disagreement say “I totally disagree” else say “I have different opinion about it”. Remember to disagree with someone’s opinion, don’t attack the person.

But ensure to be polite while expressing your opinion, agreement or disagreement. In no way you should sound harsh or impolite. Do not make fun of anyone’s idea.

5. Stick to your point of view: Do not change your opinion frequently. Think carefully before answering and have clear thoughts. Choose your answer, think about the supportive statements and facts and then present your views. Don’t worry if the others disagree with you. Put forward your opinion confidently and without any hesitation.

These are few important tips for group discussion. However a regular practice is required to lead. But remember that group discussion isn’t a battle field where you have to try every trick to win rather it is a platform to share your views, listen to others in a healthy and positive environment.

1 comment:

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