While they may seem straightforward, many candidates lose crucial opportunities because of common, avoidable mistakes.
One frequent error is over-domination. Some participants confuse leadership with interruption, speaking excessively without giving others space. Recruiters see this as arrogance rather than confidence. True leadership is about facilitating balanced participation.
At the other extreme, some candidates remain silent spectators, speaking too little or waiting too long for the “perfect” chance. This creates the impression of lack of confidence or knowledge. Even a few crisp, relevant points are better than prolonged silence.
Another mistake is straying off-topic. In the heat of debate, participants sometimes drift into unrelated tangents. Staying aligned with the theme shows clarity of thought and maturity.
Finally, ignoring body language can weaken even strong content. Slouching, avoiding eye contact, or fidgeting undermines credibility. A confident posture, attentive listening, and courteous gestures reinforce positive impact.
Avoiding these pitfalls requires awareness, practice, and presence of mind. When you strike the right balance between content, clarity, and courtesy, a GD becomes less of a hurdle and more of an opportunity to shine.
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