Steering the Conversation: My Approach to Panel Moderation

As the panel moderator I’d like you to think of our panel as a relaxed, open conversation and that everyone’s thoughts, experiences and insights are valid. I’ll pose questions to spark a robust conversation, I’ll subtly steer the dialogue to keep it engaging and on point. Focus on your fellow panellists; I’ll incorporate audience questions when they add value. Feel free to agree, disagree or build on each other’s answers. If you actually want to ask a panellist a question — that’s ok. If you want to poll the audience that’s ok. If you’re usually on the quieter side, rest assured, I’ll create opportunities for you to shine. If the audience starts asking questions, the questions come through me, so I can control the conversation. This also might mean I’ll cut you off, so we can hear from someone else, don’t take it personally. While we are on stage, time easily becomes a blur, and that’s me controlling it. Any questions we don’t cover can be addressed later, either face-to-face or on LinkedIn.

I don’t run panels like a tennis match. Your question. Your question. Your question. I just, I just throw the ball in the air and let anyone catch it, and respond.

• Audience Focus: Leave the audience to me; I’ll weave in their questions when they add value.
• Inclusivity: Rest assured, I’ll make space for…