I was talking with a meeting organizer the other day who was grousing about the usual suspects. You know… the folks who are ALWAYS called upon to be on the panel – “legends” in the business (at least in their own mind), panel groupies who always offer to be on a panel, sponsors who need to be recognized, and other folks who need a tad bit of visibility (and you don’t want to give them an entire breakout session).
You want your panelists to be DEEP (Diverse, have the expertise, be eloquent and prepared), but don’t settle for warm leftovers. Aim high!
After all, if you don’t ask the people you really want to have on the panel, they can’t possibly say “yes.”
Put yourself in the audience’s shoes. Who would they want to hear? Ask your organizational “heavy hitters” – those who are very visible, well-known, and respected within the audience – who you should ask to be on the panel.
Invite the featured keynote speaker to be part of a panel discussion about the conference theme.
Google the “newsmakers” and invite them to participate either directly or ask someone in your network who knows them to invite them.
Look at your network and ask people you respect and admire to participate. Industry analysts, bloggers and journalists are good choices.
Put out a call for panelists on your social networks.
Here are some ways to “sweeten the pot” to get them to say yes:
Don’t settle for the usual suspects. Delight the audience by aiming high – and bringing in new and fresh perspectives.
Make sure to share the podcast on how to move beyond “the usual suspects” and attract high-quality panelists for your next panel discussion.
How to Organize a Panel Discussion
The Anatomy of a Powerful Panel Discussion
How to Find “D.E.E.P.” Panelists
How to Prepare to Be a Brilliant Panelist
For more information about how to moderate a lively & informative panel discussion, check out our free 7-part video series or our other resources to help you organize, moderate, or be a panel member.
Photo by fauxels