Internal Business Communication: GDs & Interviews

Study Notes

This topic covers group discussions (GDs) and interviews from both the interviewer's and interviewee's perspectives.
Resumes and cover letters are used by prospective employers to screen and shortlist candidates.
Group discussions and interviews are used to further evaluate and select candidates.
Group discussions assess the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a group situation, rather than in isolation.
Personal interviews assess the candidate's knowledge, skills, and aptitudes.
GDs and interviews require specific skills and extensive preparation.

GDs are a methodology used to gauge personality traits and skills desired in employees.
Candidates are given a topic or a situation and given a few minutes to think before discussing it.
The goal is for members to reach a common consensus.
Participation and listening to fellow members' views are crucial.
The moderator(facilitator/observer) guides the conversation, potentially intervening in disorder or when topics stray from the main discussion.
Seating arrangements (circular/semi-circular/rectangular) are common arrangements that can impact the GD.
Skill parameters for evaluation include: content, communication, interpersonal skills, leadership.

Interviews are used to select candidates for employment, assess their performance, or for firing.
Job interviews are structured and follow pre-determined agendas.
The success of interviews relies heavily on communication skills of both the interviewer and interviewee.
Pre-interview planning involves researching the organization, its status, recent developments, scope (local/national/international), products, services, and future plans.
Pre-interview preparation also involves self-assessment of one's abilities, strengths, weaknesses, preferences, and skill sets to ensure a fit with the job requirements.
Common interview steps include meeting face-to-face, evaluating the interview, and initiating action. (Follow-up)
Nonverbal communication aspects of interviews, including body language and eye contact are emphasized.
Group interviews involve a panel of interviewers interviewing a single candidate.
Two-way interviews feature a dialogue with questions from both the interviewer and interviewee.
Maintaining honesty and humility and positive answers and avoiding vague answers are critical
Interviewers/interviewees should follow ethical conduct and professionalism during the interaction.

GD topics are typically categorized as either:
- Topic-based GDs (knowledge-based or abstract topics): Require in-depth knowledge. (e.g., current economic issues, social issues, etc.)
- Case-based GDs: These are structured and problem-focused (e.g., specific scenarios/problems).

Dos often include aspects of positive interaction, clear communication, and appropriate behaviour.
Don'ts often include avoiding negative or casual approaches and dominating the conversation.