Challenging the Statement “Panels Don’t Add Value”

“Oh, we don’t use panels at our conferences,” says the meeting organizer for a well-known conference.

“Oh? And why not?” I innocently ask.

“We have a powerful lineup and panels just don’t add value.”

Really?

I agree if the panel is milquetoast.

But what if…

The panel consisted of the mainstage presenters and engaged the audience in a real-time, live conversation?

What if it was a “fireside chat” among some of the thought leaders that no one else is privy to?

The audience would be leaning in to hear what they had to say, where they were challenged and how learned from each other.

Now that is the kind of conversation you don’t hear very often – and is completely worth the price of admission.

For resources on how to make panels better, make sure to check out this knowledge vault which is chock-full of customizable checklists, worksheets, templates, agendas, sample emails, video interviews and webinars with industry icons and professional moderators.
About the Author:

Kristin Arnold MBA, CMC, CPF, CSP, is a professional meeting facilitator and panel moderator.  She is passionate about making meetings and panel discussions more engaging, interactive and collaborative. You can read more of her work in one of her books Team Basics, Email Basics, Team Energizers, or Boring to Bravo.

Related Articles:

The Anatomy of a Powerful Panel

What Makes Your Panel Fascinating?

Panel Reputation: Chicken or the Egg?

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