Sometimes, moderators use the book to expand their understanding of what it means to be a good panelist. Amrita Mazumdar writes:
I read this book before moderating my first panel and learned so much about how to prepare well for many kinds of eventualities, how to handle classical panel conundrums, and how to make the panel-viewing experience more enjoyable. I also learned quite a bit about how to be a good panel member from this book.She recommends it "even if you aren't moderating a panel, and even if you aren't a woman (or eloquent!)."
Some moderators share the book with their panelist so everyone will approach the panel in the same way--and understand what the moderator is doing. In Moderating my first panel, Cate Huston writes:
Recommending Denise’s book to all panelists was an act of genius. At the end when I thanked everyone one of them commented that because I’d encouraged them to read this book they all knew how hard I had worked!Sharing the ebook with all your panelists is a smart way to spark discussion in advance of the panel, and to set expectations. You might just be helping train a future moderator, too.
(Creative Commons licensed photo by tylerhoff)
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.
