How to articulate your thoughts - GD / PI

How to articulate your thoughts


The best way to articulate your thoughts is to think before speaking, says Shradha Kaul

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Generally, if we examine the meaning of the word discussion, we will get some clarity on the demands of a group discussion. Discussion literally means an act of discussing, considering or examining by argument exploring solutions in a formal discourse on a topic or an exposition. Thus, a group discussion would entail a consideration of a subject by a group.
 
Specifically, once you are at the threshold of an MBA institute of your choice you need to work doubly hard at the GD (Group Discussion) level. The GD requires knowledge of the current business environment and important general events; and a brilliant delivery of one’s thoughts on the topics. A GD is an exercise in finding solutions to hypothetical situations in a case study format or a discussion and analysis on a given topic. The proceedings of the GD are observed by a panel that assesses the members of the group. Usually, a group consists of around 10 people. The requirement is to basically understand the core of the issue to be discussed and deliver your views on it. Remember, merely rattling of facts and figures won’t get you anywhere.
 
Once you have identified the range of topics that could possibly figure in the group discussion, develop your vocabulary around these subjects. Read about the topics, write your point of view on them, and speak your thoughts aloud. Adopt a point of view on it; one can gain a lot by knowing how to present one’s self. The best strategy is to exude confidence, be coherent, express your point of point, speak without a doubt and go ahead. By taking up this stance you will not only create a positive impression about yourself but will also generate a greater level of confidence in your own self.
 
Comfort in communicating with all types of people is integral to mastering GDs. It makes you take into consideration other points of view or the varied approaches people have towards situations in life. It helps to know opposing points of view to develop your own
theories. Getting too comfortable with one’s line of thoughts can make one complacent and lead to discomforting dead ends. Question your stance frequently and examine if you can present yourself differently. Understand that everyone may not share your opinion about things. Everyone develops their own perspective on things based on their experiences, education and life in general. Thus, it becomes imperative to recognise the level of the group members which will help to develop an understanding of the group to some extent. 
 
The best way to articulate your thoughts is to think before speaking. Take a pen and paper to jot down the points that come to your mind. This will help you in gathering the points that need to be addressed and bring in coherence into your discussion. Do not simply blurt out things that come to your mind, thinking before speaking will bring in the desired level of clarity into your viewpoint. It’s important to understand the level of the group you are interacting with. Try and establish a rapport as far as the group’s level understanding goes. Unless there is a comfort level established as far as the style of speaking and vocabulary goes, it will be difficult to gain the upper hand. Clarity in comprehension of ideas and vocabulary by the members of the group is extremely important.
           
Try and speak slowly. If the delivery is made in a measured way, it’s bound to make an impact on the audience. Not only will comprehension be easier, it will help the others assimilate what is being said before moving on to the next point.
Another important point is to be unequivocal or explicit. When one speaks the other people should not face any difficulty in understanding one’s views which may result in things going awry.
 
Try and avoid using long winded sentences. Verbosity is not the order of the day. There is no need to use short staccato sentences and at the same time its better to avoid in deriving pleasure in testing your new found vocabulary on the group. Be comfortable in the way you speak. Always close whatever you have begun; avoid gaping sentences which may be filled in by the others.
 
The objective of the GD is to reach a consensus. You have to strive to make the group reach an agreement if you want to stand out.
 
(The author is a freelance verbal expert, trainer and writer)
 

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