PPDT in SSB Interview : Candidates frequently inquire about managing chaotic situations akin to a fish market during the PP&DT. This is a relevant concern since, in both the PP&DT and GD discussions, candidates tend to speak simultaneously, disregarding multiple admonitions from the conducting officer. In this blog we will know about Handling Fish Market in SSB .This situation can be attributed to two primary reasons:
- Leaderless Task: In this group, there is no designated leader, making it a leaderless task. With the screening process’s rejection rate hovering around 60%, candidates often feel a heightened sense of anxiety to perform well. Consequently, they tend to speak up and, at times, even allow others to speak simultaneously.
- Influence of Poor Coaching: A significant contributing factor to the chaotic environment is the influence of subpar coaching. Many coaching academies instruct their students to speak assertively and ensure their stories are selected as the group’s narrative. Consequently, candidates may resort to speaking loudly or even shouting to assert their presence and secure the attention of the assessors.
Regardless of the underlying reasons, the consequences are usually unfavorable. In these situations, candidates who are reserved and excessively polite often remain silent, while those who are more outspoken vigorously express their views. Unfortunately, both these approaches are likely to result in failure.
Also Read – TAT And PPDT Story Writing Tips | SSB Interview TAT & PPDT Test
Why PPDT is a Leaderless Task ?
The primary purpose of the SSB tests is to evaluate the leadership potential of candidates. Consequently, in virtually all practical tasks, with the exception of the Command Task, there is no designated leader. When a candidate is the first to speak during a discussion, it reflects their initiative and self-confidence. The content of their speech allows us to assess their intellect, power of expression, and reasoning. Their approach to others, how they handle differing viewpoints, and their ability to collaborate to reach a consensus reveal their capacity to influence their group, adaptability, tact, diplomacy, determination, courage, mental stamina, liveliness, and more. Hence, when a candidate remains silent, assessors are unable to evaluate their qualities. Conversely, candidates who are domineering and disruptive are perceived as self-centered and uncooperative. Even if their content is logical, such candidates may not be selected.
How to Handle This Situation ?
Unfortunately, it’s challenging to provide a one-size-fits-all solution for handling this situation practically because each group is unique in terms of its composition. However, I recommend watching a video where various discussions are provided along with explanations of strategies. In addition to that, consider these five strategies:
- Concentrate: Pay close attention while other candidates are narrating their stories. Note the chest numbers of candidates whose stories are similar to yours. Observe the consensus on the number of characters, their age, and gender.
- Be Ready to Speak: Once you’ve gathered the necessary information, be prepared to speak as soon as the last candidate finishes their narration. You can start by saying, “Friends, the stories of chest numbers —, —, —, and — were similar and appealing, so let’s make that the common story.” Pause and wait for reactions. This demonstrates your self-confidence, initiative, and courage.
- Handle the Confusion: When you stop speaking, confusion is likely to ensue, and candidates may start talking simultaneously. Take action by urging them to speak one at a time. Be polite and avoid singling out anyone by name. Keep encouraging them, and eventually, they will relent.
- Be Adaptive: If no one cooperates with your story, begin explaining your reasoning for why the story appeals to you and why it should be the group story, possibly with minor modifications. Continue providing your logic and be open to including points from others that resonate with you. This showcases your reasoning, intellect, power of expression, ability to influence, decision-making skills, determination, and liveliness, among other qualities. This is highly effective at this stage.
Remember that adaptability is key, and your approach may vary depending on the specific dynamics of your group.
