I was recently asked to moderate a live, face-to-face panel. After my initial shock (what? Live? Do you not know that the COVID-19 virus is still running rampant in North America?), I discovered the group will be less than 50 people.
Technically, that made it “legal” for the location, but it didn’t allay my concerns one bit. So I asked a few more questions to ensure safety protocols were in place:
As we move back into the live and/or virtual world, make sure you ask these questions to ensure your safety as well as the safety of your panelists and audience before you agree to moderate a panel discussion.
Get your agreement in writing (just an email summarizing what they will do is enough) and then be prepared for what you will do if the client does not have these agreements in place. (I intend to have disposable face masks in my car – just in case!).
Yes, I am probably being overcautious, but I would absolutely dread the call that confirmed a COVID-19 outbreak occurred during my panel discussion!
A big thank you to Rita Risser Chai for prompting me to ask these questions!
For more resources on moderating panel discussions, visit the Knowledge Vault. To have Kristin moderate your next panel, visit the Powerful Panels official website.
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How to Moderate a Virtual Panel Discussion
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Panel Discussion Tip #185 with Jeffrey Hayzlett: Finishing Panel Discussions