How to stand out in a panel discussion?

Whether you are part of the panel discussion or an audience member, active listening helps you stand out from 3 perspectives:

1. PR perspective: panels are the most photographed format at an event. Don’t get caught on film looking at your phone or looking bored.
2. Content perspective: panel discussions are a real gem with multiple viewpoints. Enhance your experience by listening and asking thoughtful questions that add knowledge or clarity. Don’t start with “sorry if you’ve covered this” or “this may be a stupid question” – if you don’t believe they’re good questions, neither will the panelists.
3. Diversity perspective: listen to get the commenter’s name so you can address the person when responding to their question or critique. Panel discussions implies there is back and forth so active listening is essential. And if they mentioned why they spoke up, acknowledge and validate what they said to connect with the audience!

SEE ALSO:

How to handle power dynamics when other panelists hold more power?

How to maintain control of the room in a question-and-answer (Q&A) session?

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