How To Find The Perfect Moderator For Your Panel Event
A panel event is a great way to discuss a topic or idea, but without a skilled moderator, the discussion can quickly become disorganized and
ineffective. A good moderator can make all the difference between a mundane and a memorable panel discussion. Moderating a panel event is an art
that requires skill, tact, and expertise. A moderator serves as a guide, keeping the discussion focused and ensuring all panelists have an
opportunity to contribute. Finding the right moderator for your event can be challenging, but with a little preparation, you can identify the
perfect candidate. In this article, we will discuss what makes a good moderator, how to find one, and how to invite them to your event.
A good moderator possesses several key traits:
Knowledge of the topic: A moderator should have a deep understanding of the topic being discussed to guide the conversation effectively.
Ability to ask thoughtful questions: A good moderator should be able to ask questions that prompt discussion and elicit insightful responses from
panelists.
Ability to engage the audience: A good moderator must be able to ask thought-provoking questions that encourage audience participation.
Ability to be objective: A good moderator should be impartial and not favor any particular panelist. This will ensure that all panelists have an
equal opportunity to express their views.
Ability to keep the discussion on track: A moderator should be able to steer the conversation back on topic when it veers off course.
Ability to manage time effectively: A good moderator should be able to maintain track of time, keep the discussion on schedule, and ensure that all
panelists have an opportunity to speak.
Ability to handle difficult situations: A moderator should be able to handle disagreements between panelists, manage challenging audience members,
and handle any unexpected situations that arise.
When looking for a moderator for your panel event, consider the following options:
Industry experts: Look for individuals in your industry who have experience moderating discussions or are knowledgeable about the topic being
discussed.
Internal staff: Look within your own organization for a skilled moderator. This can be someone who has experience leading meetings or facilitating
discussions.Look within your network: Reach out to your professional network to see if anyone has experience moderating panel discussions. Consider
colleagues, industry peers, or acquaintances with relevant experience.
Use social media: Utilize social media platforms to seek out potential moderators. LinkedIn is an excellent platform to search for moderators who
have experience in your industry.
Professional moderators: Consider hiring a professional moderator who specializes in moderating panel discussions. These individuals have the
skills and experience to manage even the most challenging panel discussions.
When inviting a moderator to your panel event, be sure to:
Explain the event's objectives: Provide a brief overview of the event and the objectives you hope to achieve. This will help the moderator
understand the context of the discussion and tailor their approach accordingly.
Provide event details: Provide the moderator with all the necessary details about the event, including the date, time, location, and format.
Discuss the panel topic: Discuss the topic of the panel with the moderator beforehand. This will allow them to prepare thoughtful questions and
steer the conversation effectively.
Provide information about the panelists: Share information about the panelists, including their names, job titles, and areas of expertise. This
will help the moderator tailor their approach to the specific panelists and their areas of expertise.
Set expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations of the moderator. This could include managing the discussion, managing time effectively,
and keeping the conversation on track.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a good moderator can make a panel event successful and memorable. Look for moderators with knowledge, objectivity, communication
skills, time management skills, and flexibility. Consider industry experts, professional moderators, and your personal network when looking for
a moderator. When inviting a moderator, explain the objectives of the event, discuss the panel topic, provide background information, and set
expectations. With the right moderator, your panel discussion is sure to be engaging, insightful, and memorable.
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