Panel discussions. Companies like to send their experts to a conference or seminar so that they can participate in a panel discussion. But in 80% of the cases, unfortunately, it goes wrong. The discussion is a slow process and afterwards no one remembers who the speakers were, let alone what their message was. In this article we discuss seven pitfalls of professionals in a panel discussion.
In recent years, we have often guided professionals for performances in panels and discussion forums. Such performances are important for organizations, especially in a B2B environment where people are happy to pay for a place on stage. Being there attracts more attention at a conference than a stand in the hall. Behind the table, you bring the core message of the company to the attention of dozens of prospects in the room.
Quickly forgotten or star of the table?
And yet… it often goes wrong. Just read the evaluations of the average conference. Panel discussions score somewhere around 7. Now a solid seven is a great report card, but in marketing terms it is not what you want. A 7+ means ‘it was okay’. Most panel members are long forgotten before the visitor badge has been handed in.
Below are the seven pitfalls in a panel discussion and tips that will help you shine on stage.
Pitfall 1. Talking too much: less is more
Remember: someone who knows everything is an expert. Someone who talks about it all the time is a whiner. In other words, talking too much can distract from your main message and make the audience lose track. Keep your contributions short and sweet. Focus on the core and give them the opportunity to process and remember in the room.
Tip: Use the rule of three. Pick three main points and stick to them. This keeps your story focused and accessible.
Pitfall 2. Forgetting the audience: engage and inspire
Many panelists focus exclusively on the other panelists or the moderator, which causes them to lose touch with the audience. Forgetting them can lead to your message not being received effectively. It is essential to engage and inspire the audience, for example by making eye contact and using understandable language.
Tip: ask rhetorical questions or use compelling examples and engage the audience directly in the conversation. ‘I can imagine that the people in the room are thinking…’
Pitfall 3. Too technical or too much detail: keep it understandable
When we have a discussion about something with panel members, this pitfall often comes up. Experts are eager to show how much they know. If it has to be simplified, their reaction is often that it shouldn’t be too superficial. Of course, nobody wants a smooth promotional story. However, becoming too technical or going into too much detail will cause your audience to lose track. This is not only confusing, but also makes your message less effective. If you want to be understood and remembered, you have to be clear.
Tip: Avoid jargon and use analogies or simple examples to explain complex ideas. This will make your story accessible and easier to remember. Remember: you only truly understand something if you can explain it simply.
Pitfall 4. Trying to prove you’re right: be open and listen
Debates can get heated. It is tempting to stick to your position and prove yourself right at all costs. This can disrupt the discussion and also comes across as opinionated and unsympathetic. It is important to be open to other opinions and to participate constructively in the conversation.
Tip: Actively listen to other panelists and build on their points, even if you don’t completely agree with them. This shows respect and builds your credibility.
Pitfall 5. Compulsively Trying to Be Funny: Be Authentic
After two puns, most people know what they’re talking about. A little humor can liven up a panel discussion and increase your sympathy, but trying to be compulsively funny can backfire. You risk not being taken seriously or your joke being misunderstood.
Tip: Use humor sparingly and make sure it is relevant to the topic. Staying authentic is more important than being forced funny.
Pitfall 6. Not having memorable one-liners: create impact
Powerful one-liners help the audience remember your message. The lack of memorable statements makes your contribution less striking and without impact.
Tip: Prepare concise sentences that summarize your message and are easy to remember. One-liners can help you make a lasting impression. Often, you will be given time to make a final point. That is the time to seize your opportunity.
Pitfall 7. Choice of clothing: be professional and yourself
Being overdressed or underdressed can distract from your message or undermine your professionalism. Clothing choice can make a big difference in how you are perceived by the public.
Tip: choose an outfit that is professional and comfortable, appropriate for the context of the panel discussion and for you. Avoid too bright colors or too casual clothing if it does not fit the occasion. Make arrangements with the organizer in advance and ask how other participants are dressed.
Be aware of the pitfalls
Performing in a panel discussion requires good preparation. By being aware of these seven pitfalls and actively working on your presentation skills, your message will come across effectively and you will leave that lasting impression. Don’t forget: less is morethe audience is central and you are the key to success.
Source: www.frankwatching.com
