Group exercises
Set yourself apart from the crowd while being a team player
Candidates work together on a given project, situation or problem. The group is observed and each contribution is assessed.
Different types of exercise
- Case study or business case – you are briefed on a typical business problem. Often the aim is for the group to reach a consensus.
- Group discussion – often involves solving a problem as a group or discussing a topic.
- Business game – often based on working in teams and competing to come up with a solution to a business problem, such as a take-over bid.
- Games – board games or jigsaw puzzles, working in a team.
Common group roles
Researchers have identified the different roles people tend to adopt when in groups. Which are you?
- Organiser – provides focus and order, wants to get through the agenda
- Facilitator – inclusive and ensures all contributions are acknowledged
- Recorder – notes key decisions and reminds the group of them
- Time keeper – aware of and reminds group about time constraints
- Co-ordinator – sees the big picture and provides the strategic overview
- Lookout – considers future issues, potential threats
- Encourager – people person, boosts morale and diffuses tensions
How to make a good impression
- Listen to the ideas of others
- Don't ignore other people's ideas
- Build on or adapt others’ ideas
- Demonstrate business or commercial awareness