Almost all post graduation colleges and even some graduation colleges have group discussions as an essential part of their admission process. Group Discussions enables the jury to judge the student’s ability to think, communicate, solve problems and react to a particular situation or a subject. It is here that they will judge how well you can interact with your peers and how well you dodge an argument or take to opposition. Thus, it’s important to be aware of the unwritten rules of group discussions to court success.
Tips for success in group discussions
Keep these dos and don’ts in mind and you are unlikely to go wrong.
Speak enough and effectively
First, there is nothing wrong with being quiet. At the same time, you don't want to be too quiet. Speaking is important for being noticed but speaking too much is not recommended. It is important to make sure the statements you make are concise and to the point so think before you shoot out your words. You don't want to give the wrong impression by making statements that are not clear and you don’t want to reflect thoughts contrary to your belief either. So be careful about what and how much you speak.
Do not be over assertive or disrespectful
Never ridicule the comments or ideas of others. If you disagree with a statement made by another member, voice your disagreement in mature, respectful way. Instead of saying "that doesn't make any sense," say "I don't know if I agree. Could you elaborate?" This will not be as offensive as the other statement. On the other hand, if you do not allow others to speak or cut them down incessantly or speak rudely or sarcastically, you are likely to be perceived as disrespectful and arrogant and no one wants disrespectful and arrogant students in their college.
Listen before you react
In a group discussion, listening to the others views and assimilating what they have to say is as important as speaking out. If you speak out something without understanding the other person’s views, you are bound to come across as foolish and stupid. So listen carefully to where the discussion is going and then react.
Don’t speak for the heck of it
Speaking more is not considered smart but is looked at as attention gathering technique. You will be appreciated more for speaking sense rather then speaking more. So stay away from the habit of speaking for the heck of it.
Avoid conflict statements
Avoiding conflict in a group discussion is crucially important. Once a conflict has started, it is very difficult to control it. Everyone is different and will have strong beliefs about a topic that may differ from others. That does not mean you go all out and bash others for their different views. Never tell a member of the group that they are wrong. Instead, disagree with them by using phrases such as "it may be better to...." or "may be we should do it this way?" You are there to make it through the admission process and not to change a person’s thinking style. So stick to your goals!
Tackle trouble with tact
If someone is trying to argue with you just to pull you down, dismiss the argument with a smile and a firm statement. Say something like, “I respect you for your view but don’t really adhere to it” or something like, “I like the passion with which you believe in your views but I would still like to stick to my opinion. Maybe we both are right.” The idea is to try and end an argument politely so as not to make it a one to one verbal bashing match.Always remember be precise, be comprehensive, be focused on the issue and you will be able to hit the nail.
Tips for success in group discussions
Keep these dos and don’ts in mind and you are unlikely to go wrong.
Speak enough and effectively
First, there is nothing wrong with being quiet. At the same time, you don't want to be too quiet. Speaking is important for being noticed but speaking too much is not recommended. It is important to make sure the statements you make are concise and to the point so think before you shoot out your words. You don't want to give the wrong impression by making statements that are not clear and you don’t want to reflect thoughts contrary to your belief either. So be careful about what and how much you speak.
Do not be over assertive or disrespectful
Never ridicule the comments or ideas of others. If you disagree with a statement made by another member, voice your disagreement in mature, respectful way. Instead of saying "that doesn't make any sense," say "I don't know if I agree. Could you elaborate?" This will not be as offensive as the other statement. On the other hand, if you do not allow others to speak or cut them down incessantly or speak rudely or sarcastically, you are likely to be perceived as disrespectful and arrogant and no one wants disrespectful and arrogant students in their college.
Listen before you react
In a group discussion, listening to the others views and assimilating what they have to say is as important as speaking out. If you speak out something without understanding the other person’s views, you are bound to come across as foolish and stupid. So listen carefully to where the discussion is going and then react.
Don’t speak for the heck of it
Speaking more is not considered smart but is looked at as attention gathering technique. You will be appreciated more for speaking sense rather then speaking more. So stay away from the habit of speaking for the heck of it.
Avoid conflict statements
Avoiding conflict in a group discussion is crucially important. Once a conflict has started, it is very difficult to control it. Everyone is different and will have strong beliefs about a topic that may differ from others. That does not mean you go all out and bash others for their different views. Never tell a member of the group that they are wrong. Instead, disagree with them by using phrases such as "it may be better to...." or "may be we should do it this way?" You are there to make it through the admission process and not to change a person’s thinking style. So stick to your goals!
Tackle trouble with tact
If someone is trying to argue with you just to pull you down, dismiss the argument with a smile and a firm statement. Say something like, “I respect you for your view but don’t really adhere to it” or something like, “I like the passion with which you believe in your views but I would still like to stick to my opinion. Maybe we both are right.” The idea is to try and end an argument politely so as not to make it a one to one verbal bashing match.Always remember be precise, be comprehensive, be focused on the issue and you will be able to hit the nail.