How to ace assessment centres: Group discussions
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In the first of a series on acing assessment centres, today we’re going to look at the group discussion assessment, what your assessors are looking for, and the steps you can take to shine.
Group discussions are one of the toughest elements of an assessment centre, and many people struggle to strike the right balance of standing out without appearing like they’re trying to control the whole thing. And it can be particularly tough if you’re naturally introverted and uncomfortable at having to dive into a lively, and ultimately competitive, discussion.
So what can you do?
During the discussion, remember someone is watching you all the time – watch what you say, what you don’t say, and your body language.
Next time, we’ll take a look at the presentation element of the assessment centre. If you’ve found this article interesting, consider subscribing (on the right) to make sure you get the next instalment.
Group discussions are one of the toughest elements of an assessment centre, and many people struggle to strike the right balance of standing out without appearing like they’re trying to control the whole thing. And it can be particularly tough if you’re naturally introverted and uncomfortable at having to dive into a lively, and ultimately competitive, discussion.
So what can you do?
- Take a role in the conversation. Many people aim for the “leader” role in group discussions, but if you do that, you need to be really sure that you can carry it through the whole exercise. If you would struggle to do that, there are easier and more comfortable roles you can take which will carry the same impact with your assessors. For instance, you could take on the role of time-keeper with responsibility for making sure the debate moves at the right pace, or you could be a “clarifier” who summarises the conversation as it progresses to make sure the whole group has the right understanding of what has been discussed. Choose which role is right for you and take it on, just don’t let it deflect you from the conversation – for example, don’t become the time keeper who only speaks to let the group know how long they’ve got left!
- Be aware that every contribution and silence is being assessed. In most group discussions, an assessor will be assigned to watch you alone through the whole exercise. They’ll be looking at what you say, what you don’t say and your body language – so be sure to keep up an even contribution throughout the assessment. Even if you’re not saying something show supportive body language (e.g. nodding) to show you’re engaged and in the discussion, even if you’re not contributing.
- Balance your contributions between pushing and supporting. It’s good to push the discussion on and make contributions, but sometimes it’s just as good to support the rest of the group. For instance, if you notice someone hasn’t contributed for a while bring them into the discussion or if someone says something good build on it. Also, consider asking the group a question to drive the conversation forward – a great way to stand out from the group.
- Don’t get frustrated. All too often I’ve seen candidates get frustrated by someone in the group and even lose their temper. Don’t forget the exercise isn’t real, and let me assure you that if someone is dominating the conversation or making it difficult for you, their assessor will notice.
During the discussion, remember someone is watching you all the time – watch what you say, what you don’t say, and your body language.
Next time, we’ll take a look at the presentation element of the assessment centre. If you’ve found this article interesting, consider subscribing (on the right) to make sure you get the next instalment.