Group Discussions - Part II
Page - 3
How critical is fluency in
English to my performance in the GD?
Command over the language and
good grammar definitely aids you in enhancing your performance. A lack of ideas
maybe partly covered up by your skill in speaking, but not
fully. If you are not fluent, or if you have to struggle to express your
thoughts, you need to present very strong ideas to attract attention. Then,
knowledge rather than speech becomes your mainstay. If you are able to
communicate with the group by some means or the other, then fluency is not
critical.
How necessary is it to use
examples for illustrating an idea?
Please remember that examples by
themselves do not prove anything. The use of examples is helpful in elaborating
your point, because people are able to understand you better. They associate
better with your examples than with your point.
How much and for how long
should I participate?
In a 20 minute GD with 12-15
participants, you should participate at least 4 times with each entry lasting
for at least 20-25 seconds. You could participate more depending upon your
comfort level and the need for participation.
How important is the use of
body language in a GD?
Use of proper body language is an
advantage. Some of the ways in which you could use your body effectively are: -
-
Have significant eye contact.
Look at the GD members when you speak to them. Keep moving your eyes all
around so that you focus on the whole group and not on specific individuals.
-
Keep your body upright, and
lean forward while speaking or listening. This will show your sustained
interest in the GD.
-
If you agree with somebody,
nod your head, so that the speaker realises that you understand him.
-
Use your hands effectively to
emphasize your statements and to persuade others to listen to you. Do not
gesture wildly, but use your hands as a means of communication.
-
Do not place your hand in
front of your mouth while speaking. It inhibits speech and shows
self-consciousness.
-
Do not use your arm to
support your chin. It communicates a lack of interest in the GD.
-
Do not point your finger or
pen at a person aggressively. These are intimidatory tactics and will be
recognized as such.
-
Keep your hands on the table
when you are not using them to emphasize your points. If you tend to keep
your hands moving, then you might end up distracting others.
-
Do not sit cross-legged
during a discussion. A cross-legged position is for relaxation and not good
for competitive situations.
