Executives: Shift Your Presentation to a Panel Discussion
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May 3, 2017
At some point in their professional development, most executives learn how to give a speech. They are able to share information with their investors, stakeholders, employees and customers in a compelling way.
But I gotta tell you, more than 30 minutes of an executive telling us what they think we need to know is a bit too much. I don’t care how eloquent you are. After 30 minutes, you need to change it up by changing the format and/or engaging the audience.
I’m a big fan of the executive shifting into a panel discussion (what a surprise)! Here’s why:
- Break. After 30 minutes, it’s great to shift the energy in the room.
- Spontaneous. While the first presentation might be scripted, the ensuing panel conversation between the executives is live!
- Team. It’s not just the executive who is going to lead the charge. Why not bring up others who have key roles in the transformation?
- Perspectives. If you are trying to show solidarity or the differences of opinion, this is the format where you can highlight the meeting theme and views.
- Symbolism. Finally, visibility demonstrates how well your team gets along!
So next time you want to keep talking during a presentation, shift the energy with a panel discussion.
For more resources on how to make meetings, panels, and room sets 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.
Related Articles:
10 Ways Panel Moderators Can Manage Time Effectively During a Panel Discussion
How to Create GREAT Questions for Your Panelists to Answer during Your Panel Discussion
3 Popular Panel Discussion Formats
Kristin Arnold, professional panel moderator and high-stakes meeting facilitator, shares her best practices for interactive, interesting, and engaging panel presentations. For more resources like this, or to have Kristin moderate your next panel visit the Powerful Panels official website
1 Comment
I run an event management software company called EventsCase. One of our most requested products is the event app where you can use the Q&A tab for live polls and Q&A during event sessions and workshops through Slido. We have always received positive feedback when facilitators use the app for panel discussions — especially when two-way communication is involved. This is somehow similar to the theme of this blog where instead of giving a speech, you involve the audience in a discussion.