Page 136 - DENG401_Advance Communication Skills

Unit 6: Group Discussion

B: The Taj Mahal in Agra is a perfect example of the after-effects of pollution. The Notes
yellowing effect…
The example cited by B at the first instance seems to be a continuation or substantiation
of A's point. Had it been reversed and stated in the following manner it would have
definitely and a different and more lasting impact.

B: Inanimate object/relics and monuments of international importance too are not
spared from the baneful effects of pollution. The Taj Mahal is a perfect example of a
monument which has been subjected to the…
6.4.2 Don'ts

1. Don't Speak Loudly: Inability to make oneself heard above the loud noise in the GD can
lead to virtual screaming on the part of the interactant. Not only the tone becomes loud
but even the manner of presentation becomes rather overbearing and pushy. This move
has a negative impact on the rest of the participants as well as on the people monitoring
the GD.
2. Avoid taking a negative stance: Coupled with this is the "don't" which normally come
into play–avoid taking a negative stance against any participant, however incompetent or
ill–informed he may appear to be.
3. Don't Provide Opportunities for others to talk, at your own cost: At the time of the GD
the need of the hour is to avoid being magnanimous where offering opportunities to
other interactants is concerned.
4. Don't give the look of a Casual Approach: There is a tendency among some participants to
convey an impression of casualness during participation in a GD. Some obvious
manifestations would be evidenced in the positioning of hands and legs during the course
of an argument. The following body postures should be avoided:
(a) Sitting with one leg folded square on top of the other leg so
that the ankle comes to rest on the knee of the other leg. This
posture is evidenced in people with a closed personality who
likes comfort.

(b) Crossing the legs primarily to make themselves more
comfortable in the course of the exchange. However, this needs
to be avoided. At no juncture, in a formal discussion, must the
interactant indulge in a posture of this kind.

(c) Shaking of one's legs when listening to the other interactants is
another gesture commonly witnessed. This once again creates
a negative impression of the interactant.

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