do's of group discussion

1. Listen to other participants

Group discussions involve hearing other people's perspectives and expertise and growing a conversation from shared ideas. Listening carefully to what others say can help you learn or understand a topic better. It also shows respect to the other members because they see you're valuing what they're saying.

2. Maintain eye contact with the group

When you're speaking in a group discussion, make eye contact with the members of the group. Try to make each person feel important by looking at them for a few seconds before moving on to the next person. This can make your dialogue feel more personal. Making eye contact when you're speaking also shows others you'd like their attention. When you're listening to others speak, also make eye contact with the speaker to show them you're engaged.

3. Give others time to speak

It's important to let others have time to speak in a discussion because it allows them to share their ideas, including what they've agreed or disagreed with about the topic. Try to set speaking limits for yourself mentally, such as aiming to speak for 30-40 seconds before letting someone else have a turn. Additionally, if you notice someone who hasn't spoken yet, encourage them by asking for their thoughts on the subject.

4. Welcome counterarguments

In a group discussion, other members may counter-argue your points. A person may disagree with you entirely or they might agree with you, but not with your evidence. It's best to handle these encounters by being polite in your counterarguments and acknowledging the opposing viewpoint respectfully. You can take a moment to consider the counterargument and then provide details or data, if relevant, to disprove it.

5. Initiate the conversation

Depending on your role in a group discussion, it may be helpful for you to help begin the conversation. Providing the group with direction may help you ease any tension in the room. Initiating a group discussion can also show group members where and how the conversation might progress.

don'ts of group discussion

1. Enter the conversation quickly

Quickly entering the conversation may show that you're unprepared. To avoid this, listen to what others say and look for when you can enter the conversation. If you aren't sure what to say, but you know you're required to say something, plan when would be the best time for you to contribute your thoughts.

2. Repeat other participants

Repeating other participants' points during a group discussion may not add value to the overall conversation. To avoid this, it's best to listen carefully to those who are speaking. You can analyze their answers and then plan your answers for the discussion.

3. Interrupt others

Wait for others to finish speaking before you contribute your thoughts. Listening and thinking about what others are saying is essential for having group discussions in which everyone can share their ideas. Patiently waiting your turn to share your thoughts also allows you to show respect to your group members.

4. Have negative body language

Projecting negative body language can show disinterest in a discussion. Instead, use positive facial expressions and mirror the body language of the other group members. This can help you show that you're paying attention and interested in the conversation.

5. Worry if the topic is unfamiliar

If you find that you're unsure of the discussion topic, try to relax. Take a few deep breaths if needed and listen to everyone speak. After hearing from others, try to find a moment where you can share your thoughts or ask a question to learn more about the topic

Every interviewer is different and each one’s questions may vary. By preparing answers for these common interview questions, you can develop compelling talking points to make a great impression during your next job interview.

1. Tell me about yourself.

Example: “Currently, I serve as the assistant to three of the company’s five executive team members including the CEO. During my time at the organisation, I have been recognised for my time management skills, writing abilities and commitment to excellence.

2. How would you describe yourself?

Example: “I am a vigilant and proactive Security Officer working to ensure safe, secure and orderly environments. I’m also a lifelong learner always seeking out the latest security equipment and techniques to patrol buildings. Lastly, I am thorough in documenting all incidents and actively making suggestions to management about security improvements and changes.”

3. Why do you want to work here?

Example: “The company’s mission to help college graduates pay off their student loan debt speaks to me. I’ve been in that situation and I’d love the opportunity to work with a company that’s making a difference. Finding a company with a positive work environment and values that align with my own has remained a priority throughout my job search and this company ranks at the top of the list.”

4. Why are you leaving your current job?

Example: “I’m looking for an opportunity that gives me the ability to build closer, long-term relationships with clients. In my current role, the sales cycle is so short that I don’t spend as much time building a rapport with my customers as I’d like. Relationship-building is one of the reasons I chose a career in sales and I look forward to working with a company in which that’s a top priority.”

5. What are your greatest strengths?

Example: “I’m a natural problem solver. I find it rewarding to dig deep and uncover solutions to challenges. It’s like solving a puzzle. It’s something I’ve always excelled at and something I enjoy. Much of product development is about finding innovative solutions to challenging issues, which is what drew me to this career path in the first place.”

6. What are your greatest weaknesses?

Example: “I sometimes have trouble saying ‘no’ and end up overwhelmed by my workload. Earlier in my career, I would take on so many projects that I’d work evenings and weekends. It was stressful. I realised this was counterproductive so I started using workload management tools and setting better expectations for myself and my teammates.”

7. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Example: “In five years, I’d like to be an industry expert in my field with the ability to train and mentor students and entry-level designers. I would also like to gain specialised knowledge in user experience to be a well-rounded contributor working with design and marketing teams on large scale projects that make a difference in the company and to the global community.”