Yes, don't feel too safe when you take part in the group discussion in the AC, because - even if you take the stage with some other applicants - it only depends on you. The group discussion is the opportunity to show why YOU should get the job. It's a test where only one can win - wrapped up in a nice discussion round. It's about your social skills, your arguments and your ability to work in a team. So don't sit back and let others lead the argument, because you have something to say too!
What was AC again?
For everyone who can't remember our contribution to AC, here's a little refresher: AC stands for Assessment Center and is a popular group selection process in which companies or institutions can get to know their applicants personally and test their behavior in the group. This is important because in most cases you will later work in a team and your future employer will of course want to know whether you are suitable for this and how you behave in various everyday situations at work.
What is important in the group discussion?
The group discussion in the AC is one of the most important disciplines because you have to assert yourself against other applicants and show that you argue and communicate better. In addition, you will be given a topic and you shouldn't be completely clueless here either. So you have to be able to say something essential about the topic under discussion, represent your position clearly and convincingly, and at the same time be diplomatic and resolve the issue with mutual agreement.
Phew… That’s a lot all at once. How can you do this? Well with good preparation and you will get that from us and from the Barmer GEK in the free AC training .
What does a group discussion in the AC look like?
The group discussion is one part of the AC, which can consist of any number of other parts. But it is one of the most important tests. You will discuss a given topic with around four to six people and should demonstrate your communication skills. You have 15 to 45 minutes to do this and will be assessed by an observer according to selected criteria. Your social skills, your willingness to actively participate in the conversation and your systematic approach and argumentation are also valued.
Your future employer is trying to get answers to the following questions:
- Can you listen well and understand what your discussion partners are saying?
- How well can you express yourself and represent your position?
- Are you able to identify problems and draw conclusions that solve them?
- How good are you at combining statements and influencing factors?
- Can you assert yourself in the discussion or even take on a leading role?
- How confident are you?
- Can you integrate into the group and are you able to see and understand the motivations of your fellow discussants?
Group discussion phases
The group discussion in the AC usually begins with the selection of participants. You will be given a topic to discuss with other applicants. Either you are given a point of view to represent, or you can express your own opinion. It is important that you find good arguments, whether for your own opinion or for another opinion. So think about a strategy for making your position understandable and defending it against criticism and counterarguments.
In the group discussion phase in the AC, it depends on how you represent your point of view , whether you can make yourself understood and how you integrate yourself into the group. Even if the discussion becomes heated, always keep a clear head and don't dismiss other arguments. Try to be understanding of all positions, but always remember what you want to say on the topic. Be assertive in your stance, but remember, it's about finding consensus in the end, not becoming world ruler.
The Barmer GEK can offer you more valuable tips about group discussions in AC in their free AC training. Take advantage of the offer and be perfectly prepared for your AC group discussion!
One of the most crucial tasks in AC is group discussion. Find out here what really matters!
