“Group Discussion (GD)” is something that many students are not good at during job hunting. Because you have to discuss with members you are meeting for the first time and come to a conclusion in a short amount of time, you may often feel depressed, thinking that you couldn’t speak well or that your argument was defeated. However, GD is by no means a place to compete on argument skills'' or amount of knowledge.’’ In this article, we will explain tips on what to say'' and how to get around’’ in order to be evaluated by the interviewer at GD.
What does the interviewer see in GD?
The main premise is that what the interviewer is evaluating is not whether you have come up with a great idea. We are looking at “What kind of contribution did you make to move the discussion forward as a team (cooperation and logical thinking ability)”.
Therefore, ``crusher’’ who talk too much to themselves or dismiss other people’s opinions without thinking will fail the exam, no matter how good their ideas may be.
4 tips for making comments that will be evaluated
1. Statement that aligns the “premise” and “definition” of the discussion (immediately after the start)
The biggest reason why discussions go astray is when members have different definitions of words.
- Sample statement: “Why don’t you decide first whether you want to target high school students or university students when you say ‘young people’ in this topic?”
- Point: Students who can make this statement first will be highly evaluated as ``logical people who can create a framework for discussion.’'
2. Statements that “structure” and organize opinions (middle part)
When the discussion becomes chaotic due to various opinions being expressed, this is a statement that helps organize the discussion and correct the course.
- Sample statement: “The opinions expressed so far can be roughly divided into two approaches: ‘cost reduction’ and ‘sales improvement’. Which one should we focus our discussion on this time?”
- Point: Even if you don’t have to come up with new ideas, you can make a great contribution to the team by simply organizing the situation while looking at the whiteboard or notes.
3. Statements that develop the opinions of others with “affirmation + plus alpha”
Rather than denying other people’s opinions, this is an approach that deepens the discussion by taking advantage of them.
- Sample statement: “Mr. 〇〇’s opinion is very good! I think if we add △△ elements to that idea, it will be more realistic. What do you think?”
- Point: This is a very effective technique that allows you to express your cooperation and listening skills while also adding your own opinion.
4. Comments that give a pass to people who say less
- Sample statement: “Up until now, our opinions have been the focus, but what do you think?”
- Point: You can demonstrate that you can see the situation of the entire team (that you have facilitation skills).
There is no need to be particular about job titles (roles).
There is a rumor that it is easier to get accepted if you work as a leader or secretary, but this is a lie. Even if you do not hold a position, if you can demonstrate practical leadership such as organizing discussions'' and confirming assumptions’’ as described above, you will be highly evaluated.
Summary
Speaking at GD is not done to stand out, but to help the entire team come to a better conclusion. Abandon the pretense of arguing the case'' or giving the best opinion,’’ listen carefully to the opinions of the members, and try to be conscious of your role as a ``balancer’’ who connects the pieces of discussion.