How to Prepare For Group Discussions?

Let's talk about group discussions. Yup, those slightly threatening, awkward, and everyone-talking-at-once kind of sessions we all secretly dread, at least for the first time when we were going through it.

Whether you want to prepare yourself for the college round, for placement or job interviews, or even for a competitive exam, GDs can feel like a war where everyone is trying to talk smart.

You have to have that powerful and bold voice with confident and accurate points to cut through their statement without looking like you interrupted them. You have to speak up, but not dominate, all these while making sure your point is actually landing.

But you know sometimes, you have the right mindset, knowledge on the topic, and you are prepared, still they can be, dare we say… tricky.

So, let's just understand it together.

How do I prepare for one?

1: Build Your Knowledge Muscle

You can build some solid knowledge by being curious about the world.
Start reading news daily, at least for 15-20 minutes. Follow current affairs, economy, politics, tech, etc. Watch out for trending topics like mental health, AI, and diversity. Also, listening to TED Talks and podcasts will work like a bonus point.

2: Practice Speaking Out Loud

We know, talking alone or in front of a mirror feels a bit weird, but trust us, it's all about your brain.
The human brain processes things differently when you speak by watching a face instead of just thinking or talking in your mind only.

Thus, practice your opinion in 80-90 seconds, record yourself and play it back. This sounds cringe but it will help you in finding your flaws, so that you can improve those.

3: Work On Structure

GDs are not about showing your fancy vocabularies. Here, you need to be clear on what you are talking about. Your points and statements should have clarity.

Here's a great way to frame your thought:

  • Start with giving an introduction of the topic or set the tone.

  • Share your main points with examples.

  • Conclude by summarizing your view on the topic, and if you get the chance, suggest a solution.

4: Learn The Art Of Listening

That's so underrated. Most people go into GD thinking, “how can I make an impression?” instead of thinking, “how can I add value to that topic or conversation?”

Listening is so good as it can provide much greater insights and points. If you are forgetting any, just listen to everyone's point.

  • If you like one, nod or acknowledge while noting it down for your sentence.

  • If you agree with something, simply say, "Yes, I agree with your saying and I would like to add..."

  • If you disagree, do it respectfully and add your thought by saying, "This was an interesting view, but here is another angle of this point."

5: Time Your Entry Wisely

Being the first to speak can be good, but only if you have a strong opening.
If you don't, or otherwise, it's equally smart to wait 10-15 seconds to gather your thoughts and jump in with an impactful line.

Conclusion

Group Discussions are not about showing off, especially your vocabularies.
They are about showing up as somebody who has clear thinking, strong knowledge, and most importantly — being human.

Speak your own mind, share your opinion on that topic. Every GD is a chance to learn something and know more about yourself!

Check out jobdekhi.com to explore great and genuine opportunities, apply, get that sure call, and then? Show your GD skills in the GD round!

Back to blog