Being a panelist in a discussion is a prestigious opportunity to showcase your expertise, engage with your audience, and contribute valuable insights.
To truly stand out, you need more than just knowledge— you need preparation, poise, and an understanding of how to captivate your audience. Whether you’re a first-time panelist or a seasoned professional, this guide will help you master the art of panel discussions and leave a lasting impression.
10 Tips to Be an Effective Panelist in a Panel Discussion
1. Understand the Purpose of the Panel
Before accepting the invitation, clarify the panel’s objectives:
- What is the topic or theme?
- Who is the target audience?
- What is the format? Is it formal discussion, Q&A, or conversational? Understanding the purpose will help you tailor your insights and approach to fit the audience’s expectations.
2. Research the Moderator and Other Panelists
Familiarise yourself with your fellow panelists:
- What are their areas of expertise?
- What perspectives might they bring to the discussion? This knowledge helps you prepare unique contributions while avoiding repetitive or overlapping content.
3. Prepare Your Talking Points
While panels are conversational, preparation is key. Consider:
- Key Messages: Identify 2-3 main points you want to communicate. Keep them concise and impactful.
- Examples and Stories: Real-world anecdotes or data can make your points more engaging and memorable.
- Anticipate Questions: Think about potential questions or challenges related to the topic and prepare thoughtful responses.
4. Keep your answers engaging and short
Panel discussions thrive on interaction, so avoid monopolising the conversation. Stick to time limits, and make your points succinctly. A good rule of thumb is to take no more than 2 minutes to answer a question.
5. Engage with the Moderator
The moderator is your ally. Build rapport with them beforehand by:
- Discussing the flow of the session.
- Understanding how they plan to direct questions. This alignment ensures smoother transitions and prevents miscommunication during the discussion.
6. Be an active listener
While it’s tempting to focus on what you’ll say, effective panelists actively listen to others. Listening allows you to:
- Build on other panelists’ points.
- Offer counterpoints respectfully.
- Stay relevant to the evolving conversation.
7. Balance Confidence with Humility
Confidence is key, but so is humility. Acknowledge when you don’t have all the answers, and respect differing opinions. Audiences prefer authenticity over perfection.
8. Use appropriate Body Language
Nonverbal communication enhances your credibility and presence. To connect with your audience:
- Open, confident posture.
- Eye contact with the audience and fellow panelists.
- Engaged expressions that show you’re present in the moment.
9. Engage with the Audience
If the panel includes audience Q&A or participation:
- Listen carefully to their questions
- Address their questions directly and thoughtfully.
- Relate your answers back to their concerns. This creates a more engaging and inclusive experience.
10. Follow Up Post-Discussion
After the event:
- Connect with the moderator, panelists, and audience members on professional networks like LinkedIn.
- Share any additional resources or insights if the discussion sparked new ideas.
- Reflect on your performance to improve for future panels.
Final Thoughts
Being a panelist is a valuable opportunity to showcase your expertise and connect with diverse audiences. With preparation, active engagement, and a focus on collaboration, you can make a lasting impression while contributing to a meaningful dialogue.
If you are preparing for a panel discussion our tailored our tailored Successful Panel Discussions training will give you the chance to prepare and practise these skills, ensuring that you face your next Panel Discussion with skill and confidence.