Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Karen Catlin's The Best Panel Ever: A How-to Guide

Karen Catlin, a consultant and advocate for women in the tech industry, has published The Best Panel Ever: A How-To Guide on LinkedIn. I think she nails the experience most of us have had while watching a panel discussion:
We’ve all been there. Enthusiastic about going to a panel only to be disappointed once it starts. Perhaps the introductions are long-winded. Or the panelists seem to be lacking synergy. Or the moderator can’t seem to keep the conversation humming along. 
We ask ourselves, "If I leave now, will anyone notice?” We wonder what hallway conversations we’re missing out on. We’re convinced there is a better panel taking place in the conference room next door. We feel trapped. 
I know. I’ve been there myself. But I’ve also been to a number of really great panels, and I've started paying attention to what I like about them. You see, I’m often asked to moderate panels, and I want to do a good job. And I think it’s working...
Catlin goes on to share her own tips for organizing, moderating, and managing Q&A. I'm delighted that she also recommends The Eloquent Woman's Guide to Moderating Panels for further reading and ideas. Thanks, Karen!

Need more coaching on how to be a better panel moderator? Order the new ebook The Eloquent Woman's Guide to Moderating Panels. At just $3.99 and available in many formats, it's a great back-pocket coach to take on stage with you in your smartphone or tablet. Find more tips on public speaking on The Eloquent Woman blog.