Listen as well as speak during an MBA group discussion.
Applying for an MBA is a competitive process. Admissions officers use the group discussion element to weed out weaker candidates. The pressure is on to contribute something meaningful in a short time. You want the group facilitator to remember your logical arguments and reasoned thinking days later when he is making decisions about which students to accept.
What are they looking for?
MBA interviewers are looking for people who show a wide range of interpersonal and leadership skills, including teamwork, effective communication, logic and reasoning and assertiveness. Others are good listening skills and persuasive techniques. Therefore it is a good idea to practice talking about topics in groups before the group discussion itself and see if you can convey these attributes. Ask some friends and colleagues for some objective feedback and try to hone these skills.
Things to Avoid
Some MBA candidates are so worried about not making an impression that they talk first and talk loudly throughout the discussion. Avoid this type of approach. A more collegiate and group-inclusive approach is preferable. Do not talk over people. Refrain from appointing yourself as chairperson. If the topic chosen for the discussion is a personally sensitive one for you, try to be objective. Never get emotional or show anger in the group.
Handle a Group Discussion
The main objective is to get recognized by the MBA group facilitator for the right reasons. You need to make contributions to the discussion but not with empty ideas. Be prepared for the group discussion by making certain to take a paper and pen in with you and making notes about your ideas. A list of pros and cons or advantages and disadvantages of the discussion points is a sound approach. That way you can chip in with some thoughtful ideas. Make notes of other people's arguments.
Considerations
A group discussion for an MBA can be as short as 30 minutes. With about 10 people in the room--a likely scenario--that equates to an average of three minutes per person. Every word counts, so preparation is crucial. Avoid wordy and overly polite formalities when following up a remark from the group. A simple "I disagree," will suffice. Try to keep eye contact with the whole group instead of talking to only one or two people.
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