The Worst Panel Question

Last week at the National Speakers Association convention, C-Suite marketing maven, Jeffrey Hayzlett moderated a panel discussion on podcasting. After the introductory remarks, he quipped, “The absolute worst question to start a panel is, ‘Tell us about yourself.’ So let’s start by digging in with a great panel question!”

I agree, Jeffrey!

The problem with the “tell us about yourself” question is that it’s a lazy way to start. It means that:

• The panel moderator didn’t do their research to adequately introduce the panelist
• The audience didn’t bother to read the promotional materials
• The panel moderator didn’t bother to put together a summary slide that shows the panelists’ credentials
• The audience can’t read the slide that shows the panelists’ credentials
• The panelists can blather on for quite a while…

So do us all a favor and DO NOT start with the worst panel question – “Tell us about yourself.”

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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.

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