Beyond The Google Searches - The In-Depth Guide to Panel Prep

 

Know Your Audience

We're not just talking age and occupation here. Dive into the metrics. Use social listening tools to tap into the zeitgeist. Tailor your tone, your words, and your anecdotes to this particular crowd. It's not pandering; it's connecting.

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Research Your Fellow Panelists

Sure, you could walk in blind, but why let someone else set the narrative? Skim through their latest TED Talks, LinkedIn articles, or tweets. Find that sweet intersection between their views and yours. It's not just about avoiding conflict; it's about fostering dialogue that lights up the room.

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Craft Your Core Messages

Why are you even there? What's the soundbite that you want circulating on LinkedIn after the panel's over? Keep it sharp. Keep it snappy. And make it something people can relate to.

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Mastering Body Language: The Unspoken Script

You can't fake good body language, but you can certainly master it. Lean in, make that eye contact like you're sharing a secret, and use your face to punctuate your words. Unspoken, yet heard loud and clear.

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Slay the Q&A: Elevate from Answering to Engaging

The Q&A isn't your enemy. It's your encore. Go for the PREP—Point, Reason, Example, Point. That's not just answering; that's conversing.Your audience has a sixth sense for baloney. Own up to what you don't know, then pivot to what you do. Authenticity trumps a bluff any day of the week.

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Moderating Like a Maestro

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The Guide to Skilful Moderating

Being a moderator isn't just about holding the mic. It's about orchestrating a symphony of voices. Ask the questions that spark debate. Make everyone sing, but make sure it's in harmony.

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Keep track of speaking time

Nudge quieter panelists into the discussion. Use direct questions to guide the conversation.

 

Don't Shy from Controversy.

Prepare provocative questions in advance. Frame it respectfully, and you can ignite a memorable discussion.

 

Summarise and Transition. 

Keep a running list of insightful quotes or points made during the discussion. Use these to wrap up segments and introduce new topics, keeping the narrative coherent.

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The Grand Exit: Your Final Bow

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Recap the Brilliance

Highlight key takeaways from the discussion and each panelist. Always leave your guests & audience feeling better for the experience.

 

Your Encore Message

Return to your core messages one final time.

The CTA. A call to action keeps the conversation going beyond the panel.

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The Invitation: Your Path to Panel Mastery

You've got the tools now. The key is to keep sharpening them. If you want to transform each panel discussion into your own stage then reach out for the kind of insights that turn a seat at the table into a spotlight on stage. We're just an email, a call, or a WhatsApp away.

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