GROUP DISCUSSIONS

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. :)