How to Start a Group Discussion? Steps, Tips

Ways on how to start a group discussion include knowing the topic first, next giving a brief introduction about the yourself and then putting up your valid points and facts in a clear and concise manner without any hesitation. 

Students can also check some of the effective ways to interrupt and provide a conclusion to a group discussion.

Table of Contents

• What is Group Discussion?
• How to Start a Group Discussion?
• Knowing the Topic First
• Give an Introduction
• Communicate Fluently and Clearly
• Include Quotes and Questions
• Make Effective Use of Time
• How to Interrupt a Group Discussion?
• How to Conclude a Group Discussion?
• Tips to Start a Group Discussion 

What is Group Discussion?

Group discussion (GD) technique to determine a participant's communication in corporate businesses, educational institutions, and other organizations. We all know that communication skills are more important in every corporate environment.

Skills that are mostly evaluated in a group discussion (GD) include:

• Ability to communicate effectively
• Interacting positively within a group
• Showing open-mindedness
• One should be an active listener
• Having leadership and decision-making qualities
• One should have analytical skills and subject knowledge
• Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• Confident and positive attitude

Also Read: Group Discussion Topics for College Students 2023

How to Start a Group Discussion?

Some of the effective ways on how to start a group discussion are listed below.

1. Knowing the Topic First

• Nobody can predict what will be the subject of the group discussion. Students should therefore keep themselves updated on all the current topics and current events that are happening throughout the world. 
• After the GD Administrator introduces the topics for the discussion, wait to think about what the issue actually means before analyzing the path it should take. 
• In case, if there are any questions or are unsure about the subject, ask right away.

2. Give an Introduction

• At first, students must introduce themselves before starting the group discussion about the topic. The introduction should be to the supervisor, other participants. 
• It's important to give an introduction with confidence. Students can start adding to the discussion once the introduction is over.

3. Communicate Fluently and Clearly

• One should try not to hesitate or stumble to introduce oneself and while discussing the topic. Present the thoughts and communicate with great confidence and ease. 
• If there's some time, try out the introduction with a friend and based on that make any necessary changes. 
• Being active and involved throughout a group discussion is very important.

4. Include Quotes and Questions 

• One of the best methods to draw attention in a group conversation is to open with a strong relevant quote, question, or fact. 
• It draws the attention of the listeners and shows in-depth familiarity with the topic. Make sure the message is genuine. 
• It is important to keep a neutral point of view and avoid stating an unfair opinion.

5. Make Effective Use of Time

• If you want to start the discussion in the group, keep the introduction short and to the point. The topic should not be over emphasized. 
• Remember not to add any extra or pointless details. 
• Use the time carefully, especially when a group discussion is about to begin.

Also Read: Top 10 Do's and Don'ts of Group Discussion

How to Interrupt a Group Discussion?

Some of the tips on how to enter and interrupt in between a group discussion in a positive way is after given below.

Choose the Appropriate Time

• It is important to know when to enter a group discussion in the middle of it. 
• One should pick up where the last speaker left off or, by speaking loudly and clearly, you can provide a new point of view.

Be Brief and Clear

• In order to express your opinions during a group discussion, be quick to take the right time and prevent cross-questioning by others in the group. 
• This implies that in order to gain an advantage by joining a group conversation in the middle, you must have a convincing argument or counter-argument.

Also Read: Easy Topics for Group Discussion

How to Conclude a Group Discussion?

A group discussion's conclusion can be just as challenging as how to start a group discussion. To wrap up a group discussion some of the important details are given below.

Provide a Detailed Summary: Make a list of all the important points that were raised during the discussion, and then summarize it by highlighting all the interesting and important points.

Include Relevant Observations: While wrapping up a group discussion, you can also add relevant observations to the point of view put forth in order to get attention for conclusion and then add a final statement.

Tips to Start a Group Discussion

Some of the tips and tricks on how to start a group discussion is given below.

• It is advisable to dress formally to show professionalism in a meaningful way, 
• While listening, keep your eyes focused on the speaker. 
• Everyone has a fair chance to speak so it is advisable to avoid interrupting in between. 
• Always avoid giving unclear or unnecessary comments.
• Try to avoid fumbling or hesitating while speaking.
• Always keep correct body language and maintain a straight posture. 
• Even if you disagree with the opponent's arguments, be polite and respond to them in a respectful way.