7 Factors to Excel in Group Discussions

There are 7 essential requirements for success in a group discussion. Listed below are the prerequisites that need to be inculcated:

1. Knowledge

This is the most important prerequisite. The group discussion assesses the personality traits of an individual, including the intellectual and dynamic qualities, the social attributes, and the power to motivate and influence others into participation.

A candidate needs in-depth knowledge about the topics in order to succeed on all these points. Here, the knowledge has to be extensive and one cannot limit oneself, For instance, a candidate cannot say that since he is from a science background, he cannot speak on say, the UN.

No, you are supposed to be read and versatile. Today, such people are more successful than those who have command over a particular subject only. If you lack knowledge, you cannot speak fluently no matter how gifted a speaker you are. You will beat about the bush and end up talking about irrelevant things Talking illogically is worse than remaining silent, because you exhibit your ignorance, and in a group discussion, this is a negative trait.

A candidate who knows numerous topics will speak with authority, confidence, and interest and inspire others to speak well too. That is why you should be well-read and well informed.

2. Listening

Listening inculcates more knowledge than speaking. It is not always possible to know every subject, but if you keep your ears open, you will get some idea about the subject and be able to formulate some thoughts that can be verbally delivered. Even without proper knowledge, one can succeed in a group discussion, provided one has developed the art of skilful listening. Skilful or active listening calls for active participation. That means when a candidate is speaking, he should be encouraged, rather than stopped rudely.

3. Presentation:

Being knowledgeable is most beneficial, but if your presentation is not good, there will be no positive impact of your knowledge. Always fine-tune whatever you have learnt and don't get complacent. Many times, despite a complete command of the subject, a candidate fails to impress the co-ordinator, thanks to a poor presentation. A presentation should have a proper beginning and a logical conclusion. In trying to exhibit their knowledge, a candidate sometimes gets overenthusiastic and goes overboard, only to end up in a confused manner.

4. Initiation:

While observing model group discussions, you will notice that speakers who initiate discussions are usually selected. But this is due to their knowledge and command over the topic. Do not be under the illusion that if you initiate the discussion, you automatically stand selected or it reflects your leadership qualities. Only initiate a discussion if you are quite acquainted with the topic. Else, listen well and then speak at No. 3 or 4.

It is important to define the subject before you state your opinion. In fact, an initiator's task is comparatively easy - in simply explaining the topic, he can consume the usual time limit of one and a half minutes. Initiating also gives one more leeway, but you can only capitalize on this if you have sufficient knowledge about the topic chosen.

5. Body Language:

This plays a vital role in selection as it transmits signals about your frame of mind. Facial expressions and body gestures communicate more than spoken words. Expressions, eye contact, sitting posture and tone of voice indicate the amount of interest a person has and also his feelings. In a group discussion, you and your body language convey your feelings.

It is very important to maintain eye contact with the person who is speaking. A smile while airing your views - even if you are against the topic - helps in creating a friendly ambience and inducing the other participants to agree with your views without hostility.

And while speaking, the tone of voice should match the intensity with which you are speaking to have a positive impact on listeners. Failure to control your pitch as per the required intensity will make your presentation fall flat, negating your efforts. Here, the selection of the right words plays a pivotal role in keeping you ahead of competitors. During the presentation, keep moving your eyes over all the participants, thereby making the discussion seem more interactive.

6. Communication Skills:

Communication is a two-way process. When the message sent by a sender is received and understood by the receiver and the receiver then sends a message to the sender, communication is complete. Communication skills mean effectively communicating your thoughts to listeners.

Be meaningful while communicating, taking care of the overtones as well as the basic contents of the message take the opportunity, as and when it arises, in conveying something of interest and value to the receiver.

7. Cooperation:

A cooperative attitude helps a candidate avoid unhealthy conflict, However, if healthy, conflict should not be avoided. It helps look at a problem from different angles and come up with alternatives. You have the right to disagree and state your reasons for this, but you should not be disagreeable.

Good support ensures a good relationship with others and eventually brings success. Rapport building starts from the very first step of paying compliments exchanging pleasantries and sharing experiences with others.

If you respect the other's viewpoint and the energy and effort put into expressing his ideas, you are bound to win their confidence, regards, and reciprocation. Being helpful. accommodative and encouraging will make you popular in the group. Remember, good manners can sometimes open doors that the best education cannot.