How to stand out in a panel discussion?

Whether you are a panelist or an audience member in a panel discussion, active listening and staying present help you stand out from 3 perspectives:

1. Public relations perspective: panels are the most photographed format at an event. Don’t get caught on film or on camera looking at your phone or looking bored.
2. Content perspective: panel discussions are a real gem because they offer 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. Engagement 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?

How best to end a Q&A session?

How can question-and-answer (Q&A) sessions add value?

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