Is It Time To Retire the Event Panel?

Panels are a classic event format, but are they still fit for purpose?

In the latest episode of Not The Same As Last Year, Clare Forestier discusses the effectiveness of event panels and suggests ways to make them more attendee-centric. She highlights the common structure of panels, where panelists give intros, answer questions, and have limited audience engagement.

Clare argues that panels should only be included in the agenda if they provide value to attendees. She emphasizes the importance of selecting the right moderator who prioritizes audience interest and encourages audience participation. Clare also suggests curating diverse panelists and involving the audience from the beginning of the session. She concludes by offering alternative panel formats to make them more interesting and engaging.

Takeaways

Event panels should only be included in the agenda if they provide value to attendees.
Select a moderator who prioritises audience interest and encourages audience participation.
Curate diverse panelists to promote different perspectives and viewpoints.
Involve the audience from the beginning of the panel session to make them feel engaged and included.
Consider alternative panel formats to make them more interesting and engaging.

Chapters