Group discussions often turn into a fish market if there is lack of direction or an effective leadership. Such a situation can adversely impact the performance of all the candidates. Go through the following five important points to tackle a 'fish market' situation effectively:
The unexpected results in a sudden shock : The fish market situation is a desperate situation to be in. Doing the unexpected may act as a momentary jolt for the group and give you an opportunity to add immediate value.
The shock can act as a momentary pacifier : Such a strategy creates a quick vacuum for you to rush into and get the stage for a short while.
Unexpected can be a quick example, a short story or a befitting data : A story, a quote or a data input are some of the tools for doing the unexpected. All of these have a potential to create an awe factor for you.
Form Allies
Fish market is the result of contradictory views/opinions :A fish market situation usually arises out of conflicting opinions and may be avoided if you are able to seamlessly align with the group members.
Identify the person(s) you wish to support : It may not be possible to support all the participants as it will kill the essence of a discussion. But you are advised to identify the ones you wish to resonate with.
Collaborate effectively : Once you know the set of participants you desire to associate with, plan your strategy accordingly. Collaborating with them may help you leverage the power of synergy.
Use Voice/Eye Contact Techniques
Modulate upwards to enter the discussion and then downwards to plant your point.
Look at the person whom you wish to counter; start from there and then take your eyes off that person in a quick swing of neck to establish an eye contact elsewhere.
This is the last resort : Assigning a sequence is actually against the essence of natural discussion and may be resorted to only if all other channels fail.
Intervene with a persuasive tone and propose a sequential order of speaking.
Start with someone who has been high on ‘speaking inertia’, as he/she is more likely to hold on to the opportunity.
Ensure that nobody overshoots the tentative time window.
Speaking for the sake of speaking : You get only a limited time to add value to the discussion. Don’t waste that in redundant and random inroads.
Being irrationally rigid : If you are convinced that the other someone has valid discussion pints, don’t hesitate to accept that point. It reflects willingness to learn from others.
Getting into an argument with ‘loud’ personalities.