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 In this video we will share ten things that contribute to effective panel presentations. 

10 Keys to Being an Effective Moderator

We have all observed presentations involving expert panelists. No doubt some of these have been great and some, well, not so great. But have you ever asked yourself what makes a particular panel presentation exceptional and what makes another lackluster? 

Was it the content that was shared? 

Was it the personalities of the panelists? 

Or, might it have been just how effective the moderator was at his or her job? 

We tend to believe that a successful panel begins and ends with the skill and preparation of the moderator.

As we talk about in the video, there are at least ten key things that exceptional moderators do well. 

  • Know your objective: Get clear about your topic and what kind of message you want the audience to walk away with.
  • Interview and select the right panelists: Panelists should be chosen based on knowledge, delivery, and ability to articulate the intended message.
  • Prepare in advance: Have a meeting before the event to make sure panelists understand the goal and expectations (and have prepared). 
  • Provide clear instructions: Panelists cannot read minds, so be sure to give good directions regarding place, time, protocols, etc. 
  • Setup: It’s the moderators job to verify audio visual equipment works, panelists know how to use microphones, and that chairs and materials are arranged correctly. 
  • Strong and relevant introduction: Make sure the audience understands the process, topic, and goal of the presentation. 
  • Have conversations versus interrogations: Great moderators enjoy talking with their panelists, but always put the audience at the forefront. 
  • Use humor and anecdotes:  Lighten the mood when needed and use stories to demonstrate points when appropriate. 
  • Manage audience participation: Field questions effectively and maintain control of the room.  
  • Keep the time: It’s the responsibility of the moderator to start and stop on time. 

Was it the content that was shared? 

Was it the personalities of the panelists? 

Or, might it have been just how effective the moderator was at his or her job? 

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