Moderators: One of 7 keys to avoiding #allmalepanels [VIDEO]

Your conference program turned out to have boatloads of male speakers, but not so many women. So what to do? For many conference organizers, the answer is "add women as moderators." But more and more, observers are publicizing this move as window-dressing, and like me, discouraging women from accepting moderator gigs when the panel is all male.

Now Inclusive Security, a nonprofit hoping to change who makes decisions about peace and war, has released a video with seven rules for avoiding all-male panels. Rule number 5: "Don't put all men on stage and tack a woman on as moderator."

There's a bonus rule for moderators to heed, in number 7: "Be aware of subtle biases: Address female and male panelists equally."

The video is a great and accessible way to help fellow conference organizers, speakers, and moderators talk about a more inclusive approach to our work. Please share the video! I learned about it from our pals at Gender Avenger. 

VIDEO: 7 Rules for Avoiding All-Male Panels - Inclusive Security

(Creative Commons licensed photo by UN Women)

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.