Seven Steps to Reward the First Questioner in a Panel Discussion
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Last week, we talked about the 13 Ways to Get the Q&A Session Started During a Panel Discussion. and one of those strategies was to reward the first questioner. But how do you do that?
Here are the seven steps to reward the first questioner in your panel discussion:
- Decide What the Reward Will Be. Seems pretty obvious, but you’ll need to determine what will inspire an audience member to “pop the cork” and ask the first question. It could be a small token, such as a book by one of the panelists, a gift card, or branded swag. I’ve even handed out a bag of the luxurious toiletries from the hotel (unused, of course! That always gets a chuckle!)
- Have the Reward Ready. On the day of the event, before the session starts, place the reward in an easily accessible place so there’s no fumbling when the time comes.
- Announce the Reward. In your opening remarks, mention that the first person to ask a question will receive a reward. Frame it as a fun incentive to encourage boldness. For instance: “We’ll reward the first person to ask a question today with [insert reward here]. So, get ready to raise your hand quickly!” This primes the audience to prepare their questions.
Even if no one jumps in immediately, maintain a positive tone and encourage participation: “Don’t be shy! The first question always sets the stage for an incredible conversation.” - Identify the First Hand Raised. Pay close attention to the audience when you open the floor for questions. Be ready to spot the first hand that goes up. To avoid any confusion, confirm aloud: “Ah, I see our first question from the human in the blue shirt!” This acknowledgment also reassures others that you’re paying attention and valuing participation.
- Facilitate the Question and Response. Invite the individual to ask their question, ensuring they have a microphone if necessary. After the question is posed, direct it to the panelist most suited to answer. Let the discussion unfold naturally, maintaining the flow of the session.
- Deliver the Reward. Once the question has been answered, present the reward with enthusiasm. Make it a moment of recognition: “Thank you for breaking the ice! Here’s a [reward] for being our brave first questioner.” Then clap loudly so the audience will chime in. This simple gesture not only rewards the individual but also signals to others that participation is valued and celebrated.
- Transition to the Next Question. With the first question complete and the reward delivered, smoothly transition to the next audience member: “Great start! Who’s next with a question for our panelists?” This keeps the momentum going and encourages others to engage.
The goal is to create a friendly and inviting atmosphere to kick off the audience Q&A. Rewarding the first questioner at the beginning of the Q&A segment of your panel discussion is a great way to inspire great questions for the panelists.
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For more information about how to moderate a lively & informative panel discussion, check out our free 7-part video series on how to moderate a panel and other resources to help you organize, moderate, or be a panel member.
Kristin Arnold
KRISTIN ARNOLD, MBA, CSP, CPAE-Speaker Hall of Fame, CPF | Master has been facilitating meaningful conversations between executives and managers to make better decisions and achieve extraordinary results for 30+ years. She's a leading authority on moderating panel discussions and passionate about finding the perfect olive to complement a vodka martini.
