The
10Cs of Group Discussion
Introduction
Entrance test, group discussion and
personal interview are the three universal steps of gaining admission into a
management program. The first one is entirely in our internal locus of control
and the outcome is directly dependent on our efforts and intellect. However,
the second and the third phases consist of external elements and stimulus
beyond our control. But, the most challenging part of surmounting the entrance
test obstacle is the group discussion session. There are number of other participants
equally eager to make the mark and the uncertainty of the topic which will be
thrown open for discussion.
Here are 10 specific pointers on which
one can rely on to build a strong podium for success.
1.
Concept
– The
time allocated for group discussion is limited thus even lesser time for each
participant to put forward their point and make a difference. It is imperative
that the person who grasps the discussion topic fastest and understands the
basic concept gets the edge of being the first mover off the block.
2.
Clarity
– People often grasp the topic well but are
unable to form a clear pattern of explanation in their mind. The topic at the
outset seems very simple and straightforward but while trying to articulate the
points for discussion we often find ourselves wanting. Clarity of thought and
forming precise points are extremely crucial and is directly related to the
next C.
3. Communication
– The
heart of group discussion is communication. The strength of communicating
effectively depends on the previous two points – understanding the concept and
having clarity of thought. It is imperative that being persuasive and pleasant
in communication and putting forward ones point will make the person dominant and
desirable in the discussion. Being loud, brash and condescending while making
useless inputs will assure alienation in the group and reduce the chances of
making the cut. Remember that all group discussions covertly aim for a
harmonious assent or dissent. It is not a television debate where everyone is
speaking out of turn and making no sense at all.
4.
Core
Issues – Mentally analyze the core issues of the topic that
is being discussed. Here let me briefly introduce the Fishbone diagram of cause
and effect. All issues have some core causes which can be further broken down
to secondary factors. Do not dilute the discussion with weaker issues while missing
out the hardcore ones. Focus on the 20 percent issues which make up the 80
percent of the case. One solid path breaking point is worth much more than five
miscellaneous ones.
5.
Concentration
on Contemporary Points – Try to make modern relevant points
which fit the context rather than taking out instances from history which have
been much rehearsed and rehashed over the years. Come up with something new and
inspiring, something original or innovative such that others do not have preset
arguments to counter your points. It will catch everyone off guard.
6.
Commonality
– What
are the common points that are surfacing in due course of the discussion? Where
do your points fit in? Commonality ensures that there is some kind of cohesion
in the group’s thought process and thus, opens a chance for reaching some kind
of consensus in the end. Make note of these points where the group is agreeing.
7.
Counter-views
– There
will be counter-views in every discussion and few of them will be crucial. Are
the counter views stronger? Which are the major counter-points? The strength of
the counter-views can become a deciding factor in the outcome of the GD.
8.
Concurrence
– What
is the state of the discussion towards the end? Is there any kind of concurrence
of views? Does the discussion seem to be headed towards a logical end or there
is wide gap or disarray in the views? There is a possibility that participants
would like to stick to their ground as a strategy to project them as original
or opinionated. They might stand by their points without trying to concur even
though the argument is just and valid. This is a negative trait. Simultaneously,
concurring easily without presenting your own views might project a herd
mentality and lack of analytical skills.
9.
Creativity
– People
usually pursue the tried and tested path. This makes them boring and
predictable in their discussion pattern. Everyone likes to hear something new
and untested. Creativity is important in driving the whole discussion into a
particular direction by understanding group dynamics and identifying the
leaders, opinion makers, followers, fence-sitters and the hollow vocalists. (You will also fit into one of these criteria)
Creativity can be one of the ways how you use the diverse views in course of
the discussion to maneuver it in your favor without seeming to be overtly
manipulative. But creativity can be tricky and risky.
10. Closure – All
discussions need not end with a proper conclusion like a mathematical problem.
But there has to be some inference, learning or future course of discussion. Closure
is not summarizing what has been argued in the course of the discussion but the
emphasizing on the underlying knowledge that might have been gained or the
insight acquired through the process.
Focusing
on these 10Cs could be useful in cracking the GD juggernaut.
