It is only in india that I
have seen Group Discussions play a big role in
screening candidates. In the US they do it differently
by asking you to join them for breakfast, lunch
etc. They want you to meet managers from other
departments, work for a few hours and see whether
you fit in etc. The whole exercise is to see
how you function in a group. Are you polite,
are you diplomatic, do you have the confidence
to present your ideas? Are you able to face/answer
questions? How do you react when people do not
agree with you? Do you have a flair for leadership,
presentation etc? How up to date you are with
events shaping the country and the world etc?
While in India, I have attended and succeeded
at many a Group Discussion session with companies
like Asian Paints, Sandoz Group, DCM, Modi
Xerox, etc and can safely advise you to
follow the procedures/strategies listed below.
After attending one or two GD sessions, your
confidence will get a big boost.
This is what I recommend that you do:
As
you walk in to the room make eye contact
with the other participants, shake hands
etc. Be nice.- Wish
the Interview Board or Company Observers.
- Take
a seat that makes you stand out. Do not try
to hide.
- Do
not engage in small talk or criticize the
topics selected for discussion.
- Be
confident in the way you sit at your chair
and present yourself.
- Try
to get everybody to participate.
Try
to get the group moving together in a meaningful
way.- Do
not get into a fight.
- Raise
your hand when you wish to makwe a statement.
- If
you do not understand the subject don't worry.
You can still participate actively by asking
meaningful questions.
- Have
a Pencil and pad in front of you to make
notes.
- Try
to do the Summary at the end of the Group
Discussion.
- Try
to enjoy the process and sucess is assured.
:)
