Powerful Panels: Recent Episodes
Kristin Arnold
This podcast is full of tips and techniques to help moderators and panelists be absolutely brilliant during panel discussions at meetings, conferences and conventions.
Episode Summary Business & Industry Panels are the most common type of panel discussion, but they're also among the easiest to get wrong. Why? Because too many conversations focus on impressive panelists instead of practical value.
In this episode, Kristin Arnold explains why relevance is the defining characteristic of a successful business panel, how moderators can facilitate meaningful discussions instead of predictable presentations, and why the best follow-up questions often uncover the most valuable insights.
In This Episode * Why business audiences care more about relevance than polish * The silent question every attendee is asking: "How does this help me?" * The moderator's superpower: Facilitation * How to avoid the trap of corporate speak * Practical follow-up questions that move the conversation beyond talking points
Powerful Follow-Up Questions * Can you give us a specific example? * What surprised you? * If you could do it over again, what would you do differently? * Where do the two of you see this differently?
Golden Rule If the audience can't use it, they won't remember it.
Audience Transformation Help me solve a problem.
Powerful Panels Takeaway Business audiences don't come to hear smart people talk. They come looking for ideas they can use.
Resources * Blog: Business & Industry Panels: Why Relevance Beats Everything Else * Powerful Panels: A Step-by-Step Guide to Moderating Lively and Effective Panel Discussions * The Powerful Panelist
Question for Listeners What's the most useful insight you've ever taken away from a business panel, and what made it memorable?
Not all panel discussions are created equal, so why do we prepare for them as if they are?
In this kickoff episode of a new series, Kristin Arnold introduces a simple but powerful idea: before you think about questions, panelists, or moderator style, ask yourself, "What kind of panel am I moderating?"
From business conferences to customer advisory boards, fan conventions to political debates, each panel genre has different audience expectations, different measures of success, and different moderator superpowers. Understanding those differences can completely transform the conversations you create.
In This Episode * Why "one-size-fits-all" moderator advice falls short * The question every moderator should ask before planning a panel * The four elements every panel genre has in common: + What Matters Most + Success Looks Like + Moderator Superpower + Biggest Pitfall
- A preview of the 15-panel genre series
Resources Mentioned * Cornerstone Article: The 15 Panel Genres: Why Every Panel Discussion Isn't the Same * Powerful Panels: A Step-by-Step Guide to Moderating Lively and Effective Panel Discussions * The Powerful Panelist
Powerful Panels Takeaway The biggest mistake moderators make isn't asking the wrong questions. It's preparing for the wrong kind of conversation.
Question for Listeners What kind of panel do you moderate most often? Has your approach changed depending on the audience? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Connect with Kristin For more ideas, tools, and resources on creating lively and informative panel discussions:
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Why do so many panels fall flat?
The moderator improvises. Every panelist answers every question. Everyone agrees with each other. The audience sits quietly. And after 45 minutes, attendees leave with no clear takeaway.
The surprising truth is that panel failures are rarely caused by bad panelists. More often, they're the result of poor designâor no design at all.
In this episode, we explore the most common reasons panels underperform and discuss how intentional panel design can transform a passive discussion into an engaging, thought-provoking experience. You'll learn why successful panels require more than putting smart people on stage and hoping for the best.
Whether you're an event organizer, conference planner, moderator, or speaker, this episode will help you rethink how panels are structured and delivered.
In This Episode:
⢠The five most common reasons panels fail ⢠Why "winging it" is never a strategy ⢠The hidden problem with having every panelist answer every question ⢠How agreement can actually make a panel less interesting ⢠Ways to actively involve the audience in the conversation ⢠Why every panel needs a clear purpose and takeaway ⢠The importance of designing the audience experience from start to finish
Key Takeaways:
â Great panels are designed, not improvised â Structure creates engagement and momentum â Diverse viewpoints make conversations more compelling â Audience participation should be intentional, not an afterthought â Every panel should leave attendees with actionable insights â Moderators and organizers are experience architects, not just facilitators
Memorable Quote:
"Panels don't magically become engaging because smart people sit on stage together. They become engaging when someone intentionally architects the experience."
Featured Resource:
The Panel Design Cards were created to help moderators and organizers quickly build panel formats that generate stronger conversations, increase audience engagement, and avoid common pitfalls.
Connect & Learn More:
If you're ready to stop designing panels by accident and start creating experiences that engage, challenge, and deliver value, begin with intentional structure. The difference between an average panel and a memorable one often comes down to design.
Design your next panel on purpose.
Read complete article here: https://www.powerfulpanels.com/why-panels-fail/
A great panel discussion doesn't happen by accident. Even the most carefully designed panel can fall apart once the conversation begins if the moderator isn't equipped to guide it effectively.
In this episode, we're diving into six common moderator habits that derail panel discussionsâand the simple shifts that transform an average moderator into an exceptional one. Whether you're moderating a conference panel, webinar, leadership discussion, or industry event, these practical tips will help you create more engaging, insightful, and memorable conversations.
You'll learn why moderation is far more than asking questions, and how great moderators listen deeply, manage the moment, and bring out the best in their panelists.
In This Episode:
⢠Why the moderator should never be the star of the show ⢠How active listening creates better panel conversations ⢠The problem with asking every panelist every question ⢠Techniques for managing dominant panelists and balancing airtime ⢠How to ask tougher, more engaging questions that audiences want answered ⢠Why strong panel endings matterâand how to finish with purpose
Key Takeaways:
â Focus on making your panelists shine â Stay present and respond to what is happening in the moment â Direct questions intentionally instead of going "down the line" â Manage airtime to keep conversations balanced and engaging â Create thoughtful tension through better questions â End with clear takeaways and a meaningful call to action
Memorable Quote:
"A great moderator makes it look easy. But behind every great panel is someone listening deeply, thinking ahead, and managing the moment."
Connect & Learn More:
Looking to elevate your panel discussions? Mastering moderation can be the difference between a forgettable session and one that audiences talk about long after the event ends.
Remember: Your job isn't just to ask questionsâit's to create a conversation worth having.
Read the complete article here: https://www.powerfulpanels.com/6-habits-that-kill-a-panel/
There aren't many books about panel discussions (other than mine!), so when Katrina Dudley's book, The Moderator's Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for Facilitating Panels came on the market, I had to snap it up.
The Moderator's Handbook is a thorough and highly practical guide for anyone who wants to approach panel moderation with intention, preparation, and professionalism.
In this episode, panel expert Kristin Arnold explains how emcees and panel moderators can partner effectively to deliver a seamless, polished event. She outlines how advance communication, clear role definitions, and coordinated transitions prevent awkward handoffs and keep the program flowing smoothly. When emcees set the stage and moderators facilitate a lively, audience-focused conversation, the event feels cohesive and professional. The result? A better experience for the audience and fewer surprises for everyone on stage.
In this episode, panel expert Kristin Arnold shares a rookie mistake that still makes her cringe: mispronouncing her panelists' last names during introductionsâeven though she knew them well. She explains why getting names right is a core sign of respect and a key part of making panelists look brilliant and audiences feel valued. Kristin then walks through her simple system to avoid slip-ups: confirm pronunciation in advance, write names phonetically, practice out loud, double-check backstage, and honor each person's preferred form.
In this episode, panel expert Kristin Arnold shares how moderators can confidently handle hostile, aggressive, or confrontational audience questions. Rather than getting flustered, Kristin recommends staying calm, acknowledging the concern, and reframing the question into something constructive the panel can address. She also explains when to set boundaries, redirect unproductive energy, or intervene to protect the panelists and the audience experience. With the right techniques, even challenging moments can lead to clarity, insight, and meaningful dialogue. Learn more here.
In this episode, panel expert Kristin Arnold reveals how great moderators read the room moment by moment. She shares practical techniques for scanning facial expressions, body language, and energy shifts to sense when the audience is confused, engaged, or drifting. Kristin explains how to adjust pacing, redirect questions, or shift formats to keep the discussion lively and relevant. By staying fully present and responsive, moderators build rapport, maintain engagement, and deliver a panel experience that truly resonates.
In this episode, panel expert Kristin Arnold explores whether journalists automatically make great panel moderators. While journalists excel at interviewing, probing, and uncovering facts, Kristin explains that panel moderation requires additional skillsâlike balancing airtime, managing multiple voices, and guiding a cohesive conversation. She highlights where journalists shine and where they may stumble if they default to one-on-one interviewing instead of facilitating group dialogue. With the right mindset and preparation, journalists can become excellent moderatorsâbut it's not guaranteed.
Too often, panels at conferences and events are treated as filler content. They give the audience a âbreakâ between keynotes, or a convenient slot to showcase multiple voices without much effort. It's a lazy format that yields predictably bland discussions, recycled talking points, and checked-out audiences.
A panel should never be a passive interlude. Done well, it can be the most dynamic and valuable part of the entire program.
Here are a few tips to create a panel that offers something other formats can't: spontaneous, multi-perspective conversation where ideas clash, insights emerge, and the audience feels part of something real.
Youâre preparing to moderate a panel only to discover itâs âsponsored.â Maybe even fully funded by one of the panelistsâ companies and packed with speakers who âpaidâ to participate. Ick. Now youâre wondering: Am I facilitating a panelâŚor hosting a commercial? The lines can get blurry pretty quickly!  Here's how to navigate a sponsored panel like a pro.
The most effective panel moderators arenât just great timekeepers or expert facilitators...theyâre relentlessly curious. At every stage of the panel experience - before, during, and after - curiosity is a mindset that sets extraordinary moderators apart from average ones.
Here's how:
Panel Design Cards are a powerful new tool to help you quickly and creatively design panel formats that are engaging, memorable, and fun. These cards are the culmination of years of experience, thousands of hours of research, and an obsession with making panel discussions not suck.
So, what are Panel Design Cards? Listen here.
If the keynote got a ânot bad,â weâd reevaluate the speaker for next year. If the AV was ânot bad,â weâd call a tech meeting. If the food was ânot bad,â weâd be emailing the caterer. But for panels? Somehow, we let it slide. Here's why this happens and what we need to do better.
Every panel needs a moderatorâbut how you moderate can vary wildly depending on the topic, tone, and your personal style. Are you a steady guide, a fiery instigator, or the one keeping it light and lively?
Hereâs a breakdown of seven moderator archetypes, matched with famous personalities to help you find your own styleâor adapt to the moment.
In a hilarious segment on The Jennifer Hudson Show featuring the cast of Netflixâs Nobody Wants This, the cast played a rapid-fire game of âdating red flags,â where they each responded to cringeworthy relationship scenarios by literally holding up red flags.
It was quick. It was playful. It was packed with personality. And it's a brilliant panel technique. Here's how to pull it off.
If everyoneâs agreeing, exclaiming how awesome we all are, no oneâs learning. Here are six moderator-tested ways to keep your panel discussion out of the echo chamber and into the zone of insight.
A well-designed welcome is more than polite intros. Itâs a strategic opportunity to spark curiosity, build rapport, and signal that this panel will be different.
Here are 19 effective ways to start strong, each one rooted in practices from top panel moderators.
The biggest mistake panel organizers make? Jumping straight into logistics without a clear foundation. Every effective panel discussion begins with thoughtful, intentional choicesâthe kind that make everything else easier (and more impactful).
These âinitial decisionsâ form your panelâs backbone and should be locked in before a single email gets sent or an invite goes out.
Here are the 10 essential decisions every meeting planner AND panel moderator should make upfront.
Segment Starters aren't just gimmicks. When used with purpose and finesse, they act as meaningful catalysts for connection, surprise, and depth. They allow your panel to breathe, reset, and build momentum across its duration. Consider integrating 2â4 of these into your next panel agenda and watch how much more energized, engaged, and excited your audience becomes.
These planning documents arenât just paperworkâtheyâre your backstage blueprint to success. Use them strategically, and youâll transform a good panel into a great one that your audience will talk about long after the session ends.
Even the most riveting panel discussion can become monotonous if itâs just talking heads. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to spice things up visuallyâwithout turning your panel into a sideshow. Based on ideas from my book 123 to Add Pizazz to Your Panel Discussion, here are eight creative and effective ways to keep your visual learners engaged.
Whether you stumbled into panel moderating by accident or are now getting paid to guide conversations on big stages, one thingâs for sure: moderation is a skill that evolves. Itâs part art, part science, and part stagecraft.
Hereâs a deeper look at how you grow as a moderator â and what it takes to climb to the top.
The concept of a âpre-mortemâ was popularized by Gary Klein in a 2007 Harvard Business Review article. The idea? Instead of conducting a post-mortem after everything goes sideways, you get ahead of it â and intentionally plan for what could go wrong before it ever does.
And itâs brilliant for panels.
How to Run a Pre-Mortem for Your Panel
When it comes to allocating budget and resources, panel training often gets overlooked. âItâs just a panel,â they say. But you and I both know itâs never just a panel. Itâs a performance. Itâs a conversation. Itâs brand experience, leadership visibility, industry relevance, and audience engagement all wrapped up in 45â60 minutes.
So how do you convince leadership or your client to invest in making panels better?
Here are a few persuasive talking points to get your decision-makers on board.
A great panel isnât about vague concepts; itâs about concrete takeaways. As a moderator, itâs my job to make sure the audience gets value, not just verbiage.
So, next time youâre moderating and a panelist offers up a fluff-filled response, donât let it slide. Push for specifics. Your audience will thank you.
With a bit of intentionality, you can take a panel from ho-hum to the highlight of the conference! Whether you're the panel organizer, moderator, or panelist, you have the power to create an experience where the audience leans inâengaged, entertained, and excited to be in the room.
This hot seat challenge technique is equal parts thrilling and insightful. Watching panelists think fast and answer under pressure makes for an engaging, canât-look-away moment. Itâs a fun way to inject spontaneity while uncovering unfiltered insights at your next panel discussion.
The Pardon the Interruption format is an electrifying way to energize panel discussions, ensuring they remain compelling, engaging, and, most importantly, fun! If youâre looking for a way to captivate your audience while covering a breadth of topics, this could be the perfect format to try.
Panel moderators have a variety of tools to keep discussions engaging and lively, but not every format is perfect. Two popular options are the Hot Potato and the Lightning Roundâeach with strengths and weaknesses. Letâs break them down.
A good question in a panel discussion stimulates meaningful conversation, draws out valuable insights, and engages both the panelists and the audience.
Gamified polling turns passive listeners into active participants by leveraging the natural appeal of games. Done well, it boosts engagement, encourages lively discussion, and fosters communityâmaking your panel the highlight of any event.
The goal is to create a friendly and inviting atmosphere to kick off the audience Q&A. Rewarding the first questioner at the beginning of the Q&A segment of your panel discussion is a great way to inspire great questions for the panelists.
Think back to the last time you attended a concert or sports event. Remember that electric buzz of anticipation as the music started, signaling that something exciting was about to happen? Thatâs the magic of walk-up musicâit sets the stage, stirs up energy, and makes people feel they are part of something special.
So, why not bring that spark to your panel discussions? Walk-up music is a simple yet dynamic way to kick things up a notch. Hereâs everything you need to know about why, how, and when to use it effectively.
In the recently released 2024 Panel Report, we asked about panel discussion pet peeves - and the number one pet peeve should not come as a surprise.
As a panel moderator, your words carry a lot of weight. The audience is looking to you to set the tone, guide the discussion, and keep things engaging. But sometimes, even the best-intentioned moderators slip up and say things that can derail the panel.
Donât worryâIâve got you covered. Hereâs a list of the top things moderators should NEVER say and what to say instead.
Serving as a panelist is a fantastic way to share your expertise, engage with your industry, and build your visibility. To get there, youâll need a combination of strategic positioning and proactive networking. Here are some general ideas about how to increase your chances as well as some specifics for the questioner, so you can see how you can implement these ideas!
The 2024 Panel Report shows that while 70% of organizers say they collect feedback, 60% admit it rarely influences their panel design - if at all. Why does this happen? Why ask if youâre not going to act on it? here are some of the top reasons for this feedback-action gap - and a few ideas to turn it around.
Panel moderators should ask themselves, "Will anything the panelists prepare make the audience gasp with delight that they didn't know it, surprise that it provided a new insight, or even astonishment that they had not expected or seen it before?" Here is the G.A.S.P. acronym to help you prepare to make your audience GASP.
Concluding or summarizing a panel discussion creatively or artistically can leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are some engaging ideas.
The 2024 Panel Report reinforces the notion that audiences demand more engagement and interaction. Panels are no longer a passive "lean back and listen" format. Here's what you need to know to get your audience to lean forward and engage.
Donât get me wrong; a compelling title is crucial. It grabs attention and draws in the audience. However, itâs important that the content lives up to the expectations set by that title. Otherwise, you risk leaving your audience feeling shortchanged or misled.
Events producer and "Chief Solutions Officer" Tim Woodring shares behind-the-scenes info on how he generates and catalyzes ideas with corporate clients to produce powerful panels. As co-sponsor of the 2024 panel report with Unbridled, he discusses how anyone, any panelist, any moderator, can influence a panel to improve.
Meetings and events professional Brian Walter shares how to make panel discussions memorable, brilliant, and buzzworthy! He's talking about strategic questions that help panelists divulge the behind-the-scenes details everyone wants to hear.
Sitting properly in a chair during a panel discussion helps you project confidence and earn the audienceâs respect. They will lean in and listen to you when you have a poised presence.
Here are general tips on how to sit properly in a chair during a panel discussion.
The ideal duration of a panel discussion can vary depending on the goals for the event, the panel in particular, the number of panelists, and the audience's expectations. Here is what to consider.
By using these seven strategies, you can overcome writer's block and create thoughtful, engaging questions for your panel discussion.
Handling aggressive behaviors or inappropriate questions during high-tension panel discussions requires a blend of pre-planning, clear guidelines, respectful interventions, and strategic redirection. By adopting these techniques from seasoned moderators and experts, you can maintain a professional and positive atmosphere, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
Use this "litmus test" for speakers, moderators, and panelists to determine if they are truly inclusive and focused on the audience.
It happens ALL THE TIME - the dreaded front-row buffer zone.
As your attendees walk into the meeting room, they settle somewhere in the middle, back rows, or even the ends of the rows of chairs.
NO ONE typically sits in the front row..which is a problem.
Here's why it's a problem, and how to fix it.
Unfortunately, this scenario can happen to a panel moderator: You ask a probing or challenging question to a panelist and .... they got nothin'. They stare at you like a deer in the headlights.
What do you do when a panelist cannot answer your question? Actually, you have several options.
The ideal duration of a panel discussion can vary depending on the goals for the event, the panel in particular, the number of panelists, and the audience's expectations. When deciding on the duration of your next panel discussion consider these factors.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold interviews CPAE Speaker Hall of Famer Joe Calloway on brilliant techniques to insert a panel discussion within a speech.
I have always shied away from using little-known facts and statistics during a panel discussion because it just takes more time to prepare. But these days, all it takes is a query into an AI engine such as ChatGPT. So why not dazzle your audience with some facts that they wouldn't otherwise know?
One of your panelists is missing. The panel is about to start and either they never showed up to the venue or they are now missing in action (MIA). It's easy to freak out. What are you going to do?
When a panelist is missing, you can take several steps to manage the situation effectively.
I was recently asked what to do when a panelist's opening comment is a volatile hypothesis - that they hadn't talked about during the planning session.
Other than being surprised, here are some ways to respond to this verbal grenade to maintain control of the conversation and ensure it remains constructive and on track.
Having a standing-room-only crowd for your panel discussion is fabulous - especially if you manage it appropriately! Here is what you will need to keep in mind.
Use this simple technique for panel discussions to entice your audience to lean into the Q&A segment.
After-dinner panels need to be more edutaining â educational/informational/inspirational AND entertaining.
Here are best practices to ensure your after-dinner panel discussion is much more lively, informative, and engaging:
For the first quarter of 2024, these are the top ten trending topics for panel discussions at business events in priority order based on social media mentions and internet activity. These topics reflect current global concerns and interests, particularly in business, technology, and society at large.
Here are seven reasons why these three words are the most powerful words to use in a panel discussion.
In this day and age, you may be alienating a part of your audience. Why do that? There ARE other ways to address your audience AND use more inclusive language!
A panel discussion involves more than a panel moderator and panelists. Consider involving these 10 players in a panel discussion:
Even though you tried to influence the meeting organizers to limit the number of panelists, you might have been unsuccessful. You can't change it. So what do you do when you have too many panelists?
Here's my short list of what to do when you have too many panelists - and can't change the number!
As a panelist in a panel discussion, how do you know you've done a good job? What is the ultimate litmus test of panelist success? Here is something unexpected that you want to achieve.
A few things to consider to personalize your clipboard as a panel moderator for a panel discussion that won't break the bank.
There are some unique instances where the panel moderator should dip their toe into the content to get the conversation on track and back on track. Once a contribution is made, then the moderator should resume the role of facilitator. Here's what you need to know.
Here is my favorite polling platform to use during a panel discussion.
You can also find a more comprehensive list of platforms, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each here.
Yes indeed - you can use AI/ChatGPT to prepare for a panel discussion. In this blog post, I will not only give you some ideas on how to use AI/ChatGPT to help prepare for a panel discussion, but I will also share prompts I have used to get the best results. As you query AI/ChatGPT, keep these things in mind.
During one of my coaching sessions with a panel moderator, my client asked, "Can you plan too much for a panel discussion? Seems like there is a lot to do here!"
Fair question. For a novice panel moderator that is true. As you get more comfortable with the role, there is still a bit of prep work, but not as extensive.
So my answer is this . . .
What can a panel moderator do when a panelist has an on-stage, unexpected crisis? Here is how to handle it with grace and professionalism.
When the stakes are high and you really need to hit a home run, youâll want to hire a professional panel moderator to do the following . . .
Depending on how badly the organization wants someone to moderate a panel, you may or may not get paid to moderate a panel, but you can get compensated in some way, shape or fashion! Here's what you need to know.
What do you do if you don't have a clear vision for your panel? What if all you have known is the traditional style panel format, how would you even know what else is possible?
Here are nine factors to consider as you clarify your vision for your panel discussion.
I was chatting with Event Strategist Devon Montgomery Pasha about when to have a panel discussion - and when not to.
We both agree that panel discussions can be a powerful format for knowledge sharing, attitude shifting, and building connections. However, to create a truly impactful panel discussion, we need to ask some critical questions FIRST.
After you have moderated panel discussions for a while, you realize it is simply a matter of time before some âincidentâ will occur in the middle of your panel discussion.
Everyone knows that S#!T happens â some of which you have control over (your attitude, the structure and format, your questions), and some simply you do not control (stage or technology malfunctions, external disruptions, or acts of God!)
Meeting Planners International (MPI) has done the work to identify potential issues that could happen in a meeting in their Emergency Action Plan. I donât think you have to go overboard in your planning, you can put a little thought into how you would respond if such an incident occurred.
Just because your panel discussion is over doesn't mean you can't continue the conversation! Events and media consultant Julius Solaris reminded me how important it is to repurpose your panel discussion content.
As I coach panelists to prepare for an upcoming panel discussion, there are a dozen common misconceptions about panel discussions that I think we need to clarify. To ensure a successful panel discussion, panelists should be aware of these misconceptions and actively work to avoid them. Effective communication, collaboration, and preparation are key to making panel discussions lively and informative.
When you start talking about the vision for the panel discussion and what it might look like, you'll see the implications for your choices for the moderator, panelists, structure, format, and logistics.
Many meeting organizers select a topic, and reach out to a couple of panelists who can talk on the subject. Ask one of them to moderate it and then move on to the next item on the meeting checklist.
Whoa! Not so fast! It IS a fabulous idea to start with a pithy one to three-word "topic" that serves as the major subject of the panel. But don't stop there! Here's how to pick a strong topic, premise, and title for your panel discussion.
It does not happen too often, but you could be the last in line to speak after the other panelists have detailed all of your prepared points. Yes, it is a bit disappointing, but do not despair. Even though your main points have been covered, you still have your own unique examples and a memorable headline to share.
Rather than reiterating what has already been said, try these sentence starters to expand the conversation and provide more insight into the topic.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold interviews strategic leadership advisor Liz Weber on her standout job as a panel moderator on a jam-packed success of a panel discussion at the National Speakers Association conference.
I was recently asked about how to create an inclusive environment during a panel discussion. It's more than being welcoming and friendly.
Here are nine things you can do to proactively create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
Ed Bernacki, Founder of The Idea Factory, shared this unique panel format he calls The Hypothetical Panel Discussion Format. Here is his explanation of the format from his ebook Seven Rules For Designing More Innovative Conferences.
Far too many panelists DON'T critique themselves and debrief after a panel.
Here is the work you need to do to help you be a panelist on a panel discussion more frequently.
You do not need permission to âbring funâ to the panel. It is not like a lunchbox where you open the fun up and there it is. The key to having fun on the panel is all about your mindset. If you are having fun, others will have fun with you.
Here are some ideas for you to infuse the panel with fun.
The thing about âplanned spontaneityâ during a panel discussion is that it comes across as completely spontaneous to the audience. Here's one talk-show example of how to do something different, unusualâŚor even spontaneous!
During the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS) Convention last December, the two convention chairs organized a highly unique (and funny!) panel that galvanized the audience.
The "He said, She said" format is particularly effective when you have a topic where there is no right answer. For example, in the speaking industry, there are myriad ways to run your business and just because it works for one person, doesn't mean it works for all. Here's how it works.
Congratulations! You had a good experience being a powerful panelist and want to be invited to participate in more panels. Here are some ideas on how to be invited to participate in more panel discussions:
I like to get to the panel discussion early - at least an hour or so earlier than the panelâs start time for several reasons. What can you do during that hour? Here's what you need to know.
Having a friend or two in the room can be super helpful during a panel discussion. Here are a few ways your friends can help you be successful during a panel discussion.
The order in which panelists offer their prepared remarks is a major factor in determining how they will be perceived. While each panelist will be speaking on the same topic, your pre-event meet-up should have ensured that your key points shed a different aspect or point of view in this segment of the program.
Here are the advantages and disadvantages to being the first, last or in the middle.
With dominating extrovert panelists, what is an introvert to do to stack the odds in their favor?
To answer this question, I called my colleague and author of Creating Introvert-Friendly Workplaces, Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D, CSP. Here is what she had to say.
I highly recommend finishing the panel discussion on a high note with a very clear call to action. It is this âfinal thoughtâ that creates clear takeaways for the audience and positions you and your company as a resource. Here are some things to consider.
Promoting the panel discussion is not just the responsibility of the event organizer. As a panel moderator or as a panelist, you can help promote the panel to a wider audience, encourage them to attend, engage with the attendees, and follow up after the panel discussion is over.
At some point during a panel discussion, the panel moderator will turn to the audience and ask for questions.  Most folks call this âAudience Q&Aâ where the moderator takes questions from the audience via text, question card, open microphone, or Oprah-style, depending on the event.
To facilitate a meaningful audience Q&A session, try these techniques.
Since ChatGPT has hit the headlines pretty hard, I thought I would use artificial intelligence to write this week's blog on "biggest panelist faux pas."
Amazingly enough, here is what ChatGPT answered:
It annoys me when panelists solely talk to the panel moderator and their fellow panelists - and never address the audience. After all, it is the audience that is benefitting from the panel's wisdom! Why not engage with the audience directly?
You may not be the panel moderator, but you still can involve the audience in small ways.
As a panel moderator, it is a best practice to use people's names. Everybody likes to hear their name AND it's a great cue for a panelist to know that a question is directed at them. But for goodness sakes, either call ALL the panelists by their first names or ALL the panelists by their official titles! Here's where things went wrong.Â
Perhaps you've been asked to serve as a panelist in an upcoming panel discussion...and you may be wondering, "What do I have to do to be prepared?"
That's a GREAT question, as I have seen too many panelists do absolutely NO preparation. Okay, they might have read the descriptive email on the flight into the city or briefly chatted with the panel moderator. I affectionally call this the "show up and throw up strategy," where the panelists think they can get by with sheer brilliance.
Unfortunately, it rarely works that way. A brilliant, D.E.E.P. panelist is willing to do the work. And it's really not a huge lift, but can make a huge difference to the audience and their perceived value. Here's what you need to know.
A common question I am asked is âShould I practice for a panel discussion?â My pithy response is that it canât hurt!
Seriously though, you should prepare answers for the questions you think the moderator will ask as well as a few curve balls that you think they might ask! Here's how.
You may end up with a disorganized, lackadaisical moderator who says, "go ahead - sit wherever!"
If that's the case, get there early enough to walk onto the stage and claim the best chair in the house! Place your notes, clipboard, or another piece of personal property on the chair. Here's where you will want to sit.
For my panelists who come from heavily regulated industries (or super vigilant businessesâŚ), you need to super prepare for this panel. You donât want people to walk away with anything, or worse, fall asleep during the discussion! Here is how to pull it off.Â
A panel presentation is a more traditional approach to having a panel: The moderator introduces each panelist, does some moderated Q&A with the first panelist, then moves on to the second panelist, etc. I call this format a "presentation style" type of panel. It is clearly not a panel discussion as the panelists are not having a conversation among themselves.
Whereas a panel discussion includes time for the panelists to interact with each other - either from the onset or after the panelists' initial remarks/presentations.
Why does this matter? Find out here.
It's possible that you, as a panelist, may not be able to insert yourself into a panel discussion. Perhaps it is because you're an introvert, or you're sitting at the end of a long row of panelists, or you're the outsider and all the other panelists know each other well.
Regardless of the cause, the moderator is not balancing the airtime, and you simply can't get a word in edgewise. Not to worry, here are some easy things to do to insert yourself into a panel discussion.
If you are on a panel with more than 50 people in the audience, chances are you are going to have to use a microphone during a panel discussion. Whether you're a panel moderator or panelist, you'll want to know some tips to use a microphone during a panel discussion.
A little worried about your upcoming panel discussion? Here's the good news: Stage fright or presentation anxiety is fairly common for new panel moderators or panelists, manifesting itself with dry mouth, sweaty palms, and an increased heart rate.
Here's even better news: There are specific techniques you can use to reduce that anxiety - and here's twenty-one ways to calm your nerves before a panel discussion.
So what is the optimal placement of a panel discussion in the program of a longer meeting, conference, or convention? The answer depends on what the objective is.
My colleague, Sarah Michel, used a creative âaudience reflection panel formatâ at a recent conference. It went so well that her client wants her to repeat the format at next yearâs conference!
So whatâs an audience reflection panel format? Find out here.
While there are many (at least 9!) reasons to say âyesâ to the invitation to moderate, there are an equal number of reasons to say ânoâ to an offer to moderate a panel discussion.
Back in 2014, I decided to hyper-niche my facilitation skillset into the panel moderation world. Moderating a panel is, quite simply, a very specific type of facilitation.
So what's the difference between moderating and facilitating an event?
Back in 2014, I decided to hyper-niche my facilitation skillset into the panel moderation world. Moderating a panel is, quite simply, a very specific type of facilitation.
So what's the difference between moderating and facilitating an event?
When considering various formats for an upcoming meeting, consider the advantages and disadvantages of a panel discussion â a live (or recorded), in-person, virtual, or âhybridâ discussion about a specific topic amongst a selected group of experts who share differing perspectives in front of an in-person, virtual, or geographically dispersed audience.
Itâs a lovely touch to write and send a thank you letter after a panel discussion. After all, they have taken the time to prepare some comments and share their expertise with your audience. If youâre the panel organizer, the least you can do is send a thank you letter to the panel moderator and panelists. If youâre the panel moderator, consider sending a thank you note to the panelists as well!
Panelist Definition: A panelist is one among a group of people, typically 3-4 experts or practitioners in the field, who share facts, offer opinions, and respond to audience questions either through questions curated by the moderator or taken from the audience directly either in person, virtually, or remotely. Here is some criteria they should meet.Â
You've identified your desired slate of D.E.E.P. panelists and now you need to send them a panel discussion invitation by email (or if you're old school, by postal mail!). To have a comprehensive yet crisp letter, consider including these elements:
Iâll tell you what tips off the audience that the panel moderator is NOT fulfilling their role of being âNeutral & Objective.â
So youâve been asked to be a panelist on a panel discussion and you and your colleagues are wondering, âWhy you should be a panelist? Why stick your neck out there?â Here's why.Â
Although you have been selected to speak candidly about your perspective as a panelist, you may be wondering how to disagree respectfully during a panel discussion. It's bound to come up...you've done your research on your fellow panelists and you know you have differing opinions. Here are a number of strategies on how to disagree respectfully.
Panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares creative ways panelists can promote a book or other product or service tastefully at a panel discussion.
Should you bring the whole script? Read from the teleprompter? Bring some notes? Here is how panel moderators can strategically keep their script onstage.Â
Surprise and impress your meeting organizer by offering to pepper in notices, announcements, and promotions into your panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold responds to a comment she received about the audience and the role of a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a simple strategy to help panelists feel valued, engaged, and trusted.
While I have some preferences on how to moderate a panel discussion, there is no ONE way. It all depends on the topic, the venue, the panelists, and of course, the moderatorâs own personal style.
My best advice is to make ALL of these small choices on behalf of the audience and the promise stated in the program materials. Listen for more.Â
I like to think of a panel discussion in chunks of time or "segments" and allocate the time appropriately.
Let's use an example from this sample script for a panel discussion where the panel is only 45 minutes long.
When sharing a number(s) with the audience, it is much more than the telling of the number or statistic. The number(s) is important, but itâs the understanding of the situation, the emotion it generates, and the feeling the audience is left with that really matters.
Now that we have talked about what to wear on a panel discussion, let's chat about what to wear on a ZOOM panel discussion (or another videoconferencing platform!)
While the factors to consider when selecting the perfect outfit are the same for in-person as well as participating remotely, there are a few distinct differences that I wanted to highlight. After all, your profile is being projected as a "Hollywood Square" vs. a full view of the entire stage! (Actually, these tips also work for anyone who is a remote panelist as well!)
Ever wonder what to wear on a panel discussion? I do - all the time! The answer is not as simple as it may seem. Although I would love to give you a textbook answer, there are several factors you need to consider first.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold interviews keynote speaker Sylvie di Giusto, CSP, on how panel moderators and panelists can make excellent first impressions that last.
Wondering how the heck you can subtly promote yourself during a panel discussion? You donât want to be too pushy or too salesy BUT there is a reason you said âyesâ to the request. Perhaps you are looking for more visibility, awareness of a new product/service, or organization (whatever âitâ is!).
Regardless of the reason you want to shamelessly promote yourself or your company, DONâT do it! There are ways to get the point across without you having to shamelessly promote âit.â
As an expert panelist or during any other interview, you can proactively prepare for cage-rattling questions, recognize the gotcha question, and reframe your response so that you can come out looking like a champ!
Don't default to the traditionalists. Â You can easily spice up the room by getting rid of that darn long table during your panel discussion. Â It acts as a barrier between the panelists and the audience. Â Instead, create a warmer climate with these strategies.
Panel discussion topics are more than just one or two words.
To provide a focus for the panel moderator, panelists, and the audience, craft a topic statement (not to be confused with a panel title) that includes these three elements.
During this week's Powerful Panel Podcast, Strategic Consultant of Partner Development and Training for law firms David Cruickshank shared his "demonstration panel format" which is a brilliant panel discussion format to share and discuss best practices.
Here is how panel moderators can break up panel discussions into bite-size chunks in order to provide basic structure and help the audience follow along.
"Cutting off" has such a bad connotation to it. So here are a few different panel moderator strategies to "redirect" the conversation (vs. cut off the panelist) during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold interviews educator, podcast host and innovation strategist Dr. Stacey Gonzales on how she turned high school career day into a powerful virtual event with compelling professionals.
Although both of these techniques have their strengths, Ping Pong and Hot Potato are NOT effective as the only two questioning techniques a panel moderator should use.  Both of these techniques keep the focal point on the moderator when it should be on the conversation between the panelists.  Use them sparingly and purposefully during your next panel discussion.
Take the time to carefully craft good panel discussion questions that meet at least four of these six attributes!
One of the core values for all panel moderators is the notion of âfairness.â Pay attention to which panelists are contributing and for how long. Here are five active steps to balance it out.
Welcome to the Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and informative. This week's episode features seasoned panel moderators sharing their best practices from over the years, as well as their predictions for the meetings industry in future years, in the 300th Powerful Panel Discussion Tip. View the full list of tips here https://powerfulpanels.com/powerful-panel-discussion-tips/.
Welcome to the Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and informative. This week's episode features the expert in meeting design, structure, and formats, Adrian Segar. We discuss how to structure and design powerful panel discussions into the larger context of meetings, conferences, and events.
Welcome to the Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and informative. This week's episode features panel moderation tips from a first-time panel moderator Senior Vice President of Futuri Media, Tracy Gilliam.
Panel discussions don't live up to their potential - a fabulous, spontaneous discussion between really smart people to create valuable takeaways for the audience. You can blame the moderator for many of the ills (check out the 2014 Panel Report for the details), but you can also blame the panelists - to no fault of their own.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can use the initial remarks from panelists to expand and build a cohesive story throughout the panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a creative way to keep the panel discussion exciting with a game show activity.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can ensure they call on audience members from diverse backgrounds during a panel discussion.
Welcome to the Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and informative. This week Alastair Greener, Communications Speaker & Consultant, Event MC, and TV Presenter explains a number of strategies for panelists and panel moderators to prepare for and execute powerful panel discussions both internationally and in the states.
Welcome to the Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and informative. This week's episode focuses on how CEO and Founder of Futuri Media Daniel Anstandig prepares to have an interesting and engaging panel discussion.
Powerful Panels Podcast - dedicated to making all panel discussions lively and infomative. This week's episode is a debrief of the National Speakers Association (NSA) panel discussion at the Winter Conference 2021. The response was overwhelmingly positive aka #BestPanelEver! In this episode, Kristin interviews the event EmCees and panel moderators, Jon Petz and Pam Leinmiller for their tips and ideas.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to create intimacy during virtual meetings, virtual panel discussions and hybrid panel discussions.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold provides a number of ways panel moderators and event organizers can plan to spice up their panel discussion with visual variety.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares the differences between a live virtual panel discussion and a recorded panel discussion.
High-stakes meeting facilitator, professional panel moderator, and presidential debate rules analyst Kristin Arnold provides insights on the types of bias that debate moderators can have.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can use and distribute handouts or takeaways during a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares her best practices for ending a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to critique yourself after moderating a panel discussion to improve for the next time.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators and virtual presenters can use the "camera stage" to it's fullest potential during virtual meetings and panel discussions.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how to create brilliant panelist questions using the "What If" game.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies for panel moderators to use humor during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to ensure the audience is engaged even in the moments before a virtual panel discussion starts.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to obtain feedback from a virtual audience during a virtual panel discussion
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how you can "dress the part" when moderating a panel discussion to bring excitement and intrigue.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of items panel moderators should discuss with their meeting organizer before a panel discussion.
To make your life easier, follow along with this planning worksheet to help you have a fabulous conversation with the meeting organizer for your next panel discussion!
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panelists can prepare to be brilliant during a virtual panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to seamlessly incorporate a remote panelist into a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of helpful phrases panel moderators can use to intervene on the panelist that talks too much.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of techniques to incorporate the F2F and the virtual audience during a hybrid panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies for telling colorful stories during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of strategies to moderate a virtual panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high stakes meeting facilitator, shares how moderators can draw up questions for panelists that encourage a robust conversation.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold provides the definition of a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high stakes meeting facilitator, shares four of the most popular formats for panel discussions and conferences, conventions, and meetings.
So what does a moderator actually do that makes the panel worthwhile? High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of reasons why a panel discussion needs a panel moderator.Â
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high stakes meeting facilitator, shares the most common mistakes panel moderators make and how panel moderators can learn and improve.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how a recent panelist declined to take part in a "Manel" and referred to a female colleague who could take his place.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how moderators do have bias and how it can affect a panel discussion or presidential debate.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares polarizing, provocative, and controversial questions to ask panelists during a panel discussion.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how to set up the panel discussion stage for success, with virtually no budget.
High-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares why panel moderators need an Emergency Action Plan when moderating a panel discussion at meetings, events, and conferences.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of reasons why conference attendees should beware of a "stacked panel" at their next event.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of ways panelists can ensure they get their message across during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of tips for microphone runners to do their job well during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator shares an interesting way to categorize panelist's viewpoints and present their ideas in an entertaining way, based off The Slate's format idea after the last presidential debate.
KRISTIN ARNOLD, MBA, CPF, CSP is a high-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator who shares a number of ways panel moderators can open their panel discussions.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how to pull off an "unpanel" or a panel discussion with no moderator.
KRISTIN ARNOLD, MBA, CPF, CSP is a high-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator who shares how to play BINGO during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a number of ways panel moderators can engage the audience by asking for a verbal response.Â
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold provides a number of ways panel moderators and panelists can use excellent examples and illustrations during a panel discussion.Â
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can encourage spirited debates that do not get into heated arguments during panel discussions.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can prepare for a conversation during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a few ways that panel moderators can use audience-engaging videos during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares an improv game that helps the panelists build on each other's answers during a panel discussion.
Panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can model the conversational flow of front porch dialogue.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can set the tone and illustrate to panelists the importance of conversation during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can "model" the behavior they want to see in panelists and bring the right level of passion and enthusiasm to a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator shares some hilarious tweets on awkward audience comments during panel discussions and how moderators can intervene and prompt great questions instead.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panelists can be professional, interesting, and powerful during a panel discussion.
Panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how academic panels can be powerful, meaningful, memorable, and even transformational!
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold debates the validity of calling a panel discussion "one of a kind."Â
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a number of ways panelists can prepare to leave audience with key takeaways and information they can act on.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can make a productive and intentional shift in the direction of their panel discussion to fit the audience member's needs.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares how to get the audience engaged during a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares why popular television news shows do not host panels, and how panel moderators can avoid the interrupting and discussion dominating that is aired on the news "panels."
KRISTIN ARNOLD, MBA, CPF, CSP is a high-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator who shares an audience engaging panel discussion format.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a few comments on a recent blog post by an Indian author and panel moderator.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares tips for moderators effectively prepare panelists for a panel discussion without taking away from the conversation and the intrigue of the panel.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a fun game to get the audience involved during a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a game to invoke provocative and interesting panel discussion questions from the audience.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a lesson on what panel moderators should not do before and during a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares creative method to draw intriguing questions from the audience during a panel discussion at meetings, conferences, and events.
Kristin Arnold MBA, CMC, CPF, CSP, is a professional meeting facilitator and panel moderator who shares strategies to find the ideal panelists for a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares creative method to draw intriguing questions from the audience during a panel discussion at meetings, conferences, and events.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a unique way to get the panelists to improv during a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares a panel discussion format to engage the audience.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares an audience engaging panel discussion format using a game.
High-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold features an interesting panel moderator technique created by founder of Extreme Meetings, Brian Walter.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares what panel moderators should do if they are an expert on the panel discussion topic.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a way that panel moderators can end their panel discussion in a unique way.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares her best practices for using microphones during interactive, interesting, and engaging panel presentations.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares tips for when panel moderators should tell panelists what their questions will be during a panel discussion.
High-stakes meeting facilitator and panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares how panel discussions may not be the answer to showing gender diversity on the main stage at conferences, meetings, and conventions.
Professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares a panel discussion format for moderators to use at conferences.
Professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold shares a unique panel discussion format and how panel moderators can manage discussion when panelists go off topic.
Professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares how panel moderators can ask great follow-up questions during a panel discussion.
Professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares some ways panelists can prepare for a panel discussion.
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator, shares a few tips for preventing sound-related technology malfunctions during panel discussions.