Group Discussion Hints & Evaluation
Group Discussions are becoming so popular that they have become the norm in regards to the interview process for a large company or intrance into a university. Inspite of this, they still cause a lot of stress and anxiety for a lot of people. However, if you are aware of what the interviewer is looking for during a Group Discussion you can use the evaluation process to your advantage. By understanding what is being evaluated you can be sure to make yourself known in each of the evaluation areas which will put you at the top of the list for recommendation and advancement.
Here are the sort of criteria on which your contribution to a group exercise during a Group Discussion might be assessed.
Participation
- Participates enthusiastically in discussion.
- (Be involved, engaged and speak up. If you don't say anything then you can't be evaluated. Show that your are interested by listening, nodding, responding and encouraging the discussion.)
Spoken Expression
- Expresses his/herself clearly and coherently.
- (Be in control of yourself and your speaking. Don't speak so fast that no one can understand you or that you stumble over your own words.)
Originality of Ideas
- Introduces new ideas.
- Builds constructively on the ideas of others.
- Brings a fresh approach to a problem.
- (Be creative and introduce your own ideas and concepts. You can also add to or adapt other people's ideas to create better solutions.)
Quality of Thought
- Analyses the problem and important variables.
- Gets to the root of the problem.
- (Think before you speak - make sure you understand the topic and the important pieces of information that need to be considered and discussed in order to come to the best solution.)
Influence on Others
- Makes a point which is accepted by the group.
- Influences the direction and nature of the discussion.
- (If you are involved in the discussion from the beginning it will be easier to have influence over the group. Speak early and speak often.)
Open Mindedness
- Listens carefully to other members views.
- Incorporates the points made by others into their own.
- (This is not ment to be a one man show. The benefit of a group discussion is that everyone's ideas can be collected and analysed for a synergetic solution. Be sure to include others and ask them about their ideas and opinions. Everyone loves a team player.)
Facilitation of the Discussion
- Makes a direct attempt to help and involve another person.
- Squashes a dominant interrupter to allow someone else to make a point.
Judgment
- Discriminates clearly between the important and the trivial.
- Does not allow his/her feelings to sway decisions.
- (Do not take the discussion personally and keep your temper under control.)
If you pay attention to each of these areas then you will be well on your way to acing your next Group Discussion.
If you would like to improve your GD skills then come and see us at Venture English. Our Professional course regularly uses Group Discussion as part of our curriculum.