Group Discussion (GD) forms an integral part of the selection process in IT companies & competitive exams but there is a possibility to conduct GD in the public sector bank recruitments too.On request from readers,we are posting the tips to crack group discussions.
What is Group discussion
A team of 4 – 8 candidates is formed by panelists & a topic is given to each team on which the discussion has to happen.There are no specific methods to conduct the event but it helps to know about the conversational, team building & judgmental skills possessed by an applicant.
With the results of IBPS common written exam out, GD may be held for bank probationary officer or management trainee posts to filter the competition before the interview stage (see What next after IBPS PO results?)
Here are some important points that an evaluator would look in a person.
Starting the discussion: There is a strong feeling in GD that a person who speaks first has better chances for getting selected.
- Before starting, make sure to have some basic knowledge about the topic.
- Giving the introduction allows you to begin the discussion from any point & set a tone for others to follow.
- There is no use in being the first speaker & giving irrelevant details
- Starting the talk alone does not enable selection, but fetches you more marks.
Communication: This is one of the main parameter that shall be looked at.
- Practice saying sentences to yourself & ask ‘Am I understandable?’
- Speak slowly.Speaking fast will increase rate of mistakes.
- Even though you are well versed in the topic, it will be worthless if not expressed properly.
- Use simple, easy to understand words without any grammatical errors while forming sentences.
- Read english newspapers or watch english news channels for proper usage of sentences.
Listen: ‘I have spoken.Let me take rest’ is the mindset of many candidates.
- By listening to others, you can provide a new viewpoint, reply for a question or disagree with the other person`s argument.
- Repeating the same thoughts already said can be avoided.
- Do not sit quietly after your turn.Increase your marks through active participation in the conversations.
What Not to Do:
For any event there are certain things that one must not attempt as it creates a bad impression to the onlooker.Group discussions also have such rules which are listed below..
- Don’t dominate the discussion.Give chance to everyone.
- Do not interrupt the other member`s speech.Wait till they complete
- Stick to the topic & provide ideas only related to it in your speech
- In trying to prove your point, don’t provide false news
- Do not keep quiet for long.It sends a wrong signal to the selector.
How to Prepare for GD:
The topics for group discussion is not taken from textbooks but from the real world.It could a recent news story or a recently debated issue in parliament or even about a film.
- Preparing for GD is similar to general awa\reness preparation.
- GK books, English news magazines & editorials in newspapers are some good sources of current events.We personally recommend candidates to read the centre pages of ‘The Hindu’ for news analysis.
- Before the GD – note down headlines of the entire week with short notes of each.This helps in knowing about the recent developments.
Books: If you are looking for some physical reference materials such as guides or books to prepare for group discussion, the following shall be helpful.You can purchase them from the Internet & pay via cash/ ATM cards.
* Group discussion topics (with answers) – Rs.145 – Buy online
Finally, appear for the group discussion with a cool & relaxed head as it is only about speaking.