If a candidate wants to become a part of prestigious Indian defence as a commissioned officer, he/she has to go through a 5 days testing process i.e. SSB Interview. It is the one and only gate for officers entry in Indian armed force.
It is present in all three major wings of Indian Defence i.e. Army, Air Force & Navy. Candidates have to face various kinds of ground tasks (GTO), Psychology Tests in these 5 Days. Personal interview and Group Discussion are also such type of tests conducted at SSB selection center.
Speaking During Personal Interview
Today we will talk about a very common & popular mistake committed by candidates during these tests. Some candidates actually do not speak up during group discussions and Personal Interviews. The reason is nervousness & fear. They are too scared of committing a blunder in front of group members during GD and in front of interviewing officer during Personal interview. So due to this fear; they don’t even try to speak. That is the biggest mistake.
Always remember that, most of the world’s greatest discoveries of world were a result of a mistake done by their inventors e.g. Columbus’ discovery of America. He reached America by mistake. He was not going there, but reached there because he tried something fearlessly. Friends, there is a very famous and wise line said by Winston Churchill:
“All men make mistakes, but only wise men learn from their mistakes”
Speaking During Group Discussion
Now you will ask what this short story and line has to do with your performance in GD & Personal Interview ? The moral of above story is that candidates should not be scared of making mistakes even during any GD or Personal Interview. “When you will not even try, how can you expect to get succeed ?”
That is what mistakes are for i.e. learning. They become a very important part of your life experience. If you go on and on for attending SSB Interview and make the same mistakes during GD without learning anything from it, then it is of no use & it’s better that you don’t attend anymore SSB interview in future.
Not speak at all is not the solution of this problem. You will have to face this and only then you will cross this hurdle named SSB interview. After all you came to become an officer in armed forces. After becoming officers you will have to lead your team members and communication ability is a must thing for a leader.
Personal Interview and Group Discussion : Speaking
Hence the conclusion is, when you think through your mistakes and work on them, you will gain confidence and also discover new ways. So when you are going for GD or personal interview do speak up and give your best. Only then you will know what to do and what not to do during these tests.
How to Overcome Nervousness While Speaking
Many candidates face nervousness while speaking during GDs and personal interviews. Here are some practical tips to boost your confidence:
- Prepare & Practice:
- Anticipate common questions in a personal interview and rehearse answers.
- Practice speaking in front of a mirror or record yourself to analyze your voice tone and clarity.
- Think Before You Speak:
- In a GD, listen to others before putting forward your points.
- Frame your thoughts concisely to avoid rambling.
- Stay Calm & Composed:
- Take deep breaths before speaking.
- Maintain a normal pace and avoid rushing your words.
- Improve Your General Knowledge:
- Read newspapers and stay updated with national and international current affairs.
- Be aware of recent developments in defense and strategic affairs.
- Use Positive Body Language:
- Maintain eye contact with the interviewer and fellow group members.
- Sit straight, use controlled hand gestures, and avoid fidgeting.
What Not to Do While Speaking in GD & PI
❌ Do not interrupt others. Wait for your turn to speak.
❌ Avoid being too aggressive. Speak firmly but politely.
❌ Do not give one-word or vague answers. Elaborate when necessary.
❌ Avoid faking information. Be honest in your responses.
SSB Expert Team advice – Don’t try all the mistakes and then learn. Try avoiding some common mistake in Group Discussion. This life is too short for trying all the mistakes by your own.
FAQs