A Panel Discussion is a specific type of session usually seen at conferences & conventions. A number of invited guests are involved onstage at the same time, usually with a moderator asking them questions and controlling the flow of the event. A Panel discussion may or may not also involve questions from the audience. Discover how to prepare questions, and the key qualities of a good moderator. In this episode you’ll discover: The benefits of being visible and taking the stage (1:40) Make it a conversation that everyone can feel good about. For helpful resources on becoming a better panel moderator and avoiding these unforgivable offenses, check out this step-by-step guide. Related Articles: How to Organize a Panel Discussion. Panel Discussion Definition. 27 Popular Panel Discussion Formats. How to Structure a Panel Discussion A good moderator will also be able to keep the panelists from getting too heated and make sure that the discussion remains respectful. How to keep a panel discussion on track According to Keynote Speakers , when you are the moderator of a discussion panel, it is your job to keep the conversation flowing and to make sure that all panelists have The moderator should arrange to meet with the speakers in the meeting room 5 to 10 minutes before the session starts. The moderator should visit the meeting room before the session to become familiar with the physical layout, including the podium, the presentation system, the lights, the microphones, and the timing system. Participating in a panel discussion can be challenging so the next time you’re invited to speak on a panel, try out these tips to make sure you and the audience get the most out of the experience. BEFORE YOU SAY YES… Understand the audience. Before you even agree to participate in a panel, talk to the organizer and/or moderator about the Many panel discussions include a question-and-answer session with the audience. There is no way to know for sure what an audience member will ask, but you can prepare by creating a list of potential questions and answers that apply to your area of expertise. WHAT TO WEAR Check with the panel moderator for any special information about the venue, At the end of the day, good panel sessions are work. Not a ton of work, but if the organizer is also the moderator, the extra work to make the good panel with get dropped before anything else. It’s a great assignment to give away to someone, perhaps for free admission to the event. I happen to love moderating panel sessions. 3 Popular Panel Discussion Formats. Make the Title of Your Panel Discussion Intriguing. Panel Discussion Formats: Take a Lesson from TV. Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high stakes meeting facilitator, shares her best practices for interactive, interesting, and engaging panel presentations. They typically find a panel moderator by asking: A local celebrity, such as a newsperson. A well-known member of the association. A good sponsor who needs a little visibility to be happy. A colleague offered to put together a panel. An associate who mentioned a certain person would be a good moderator. Google “who can moderate a panel?” 7xobR58.