Engaging Panel Speakers For Networking Events

Most panels are posturing and fluff. Because many just show up so they can say they were a ‘speaker.’ Unfortunate, but true. Beauty of that is, if you decide that’s not what you want to do, you can stand out instantly (and build loads of credibility): I've coached clients through dozens of panel discussions, and the difference between forgettable and fantastic comes down to three things. Here's what separates the pros from the amateurs: 1. Prep “It’s a panel, I don’t need to prepare.” Wrong, though yes, you don’t want to be a robot. So, prepare differently. - Know your role – are you a storyteller, a philosopher, naturally funny? Play into that, don’t force something you’re not (yet). - Know your why – why is this panel important to you? What makes you uniquely qualified? A good time to get 7 levels deep, to really know the root. - Know your perspective - What stories might you share? What frameworks do you use? Give people something to remember. Think on what you might leave them with. 2. Actively listen Stop rehearsing in your head. Listen to your co-panelists. Build on their points. Disagree (respectfully). Reference their comments. Make it a real conversation, not parallel monologues. 3. Energy management Your audience lives off your energy. Understand where the room is at, then lift it 10%. Too high, you'll seem forced. Too low, you'll drain them. Great panels aren't about withholding information for an outside conversation. They’re about building value through dialogue. Think of it like a dinner party conversation where everyone's invested in making it interesting. - Listen more than you speak - Ask thoughtful follow-ups - Build on others' ideas - Share the spotlight Simple? Yes. Obvious? Maybe. But will most panelists do this? No. That's your advantage.

Every so often instead of delivering a keynote or leading a workshop, I get the opportunity to be on a panel! I love panels because I love the organic nature of the conversation. I also love sharing wisdom with the next generation of powerful leaders. It never gets old and I love it when they take the time to connect with me individually. It means so much to know that I’ve made an impact even if for a brief moment. And I appreciate every word they share. THANK YOU!! Amazing event! How to Be Memorable on Any Panel 1. Stand Out with Authentic Authority Don’t just aim to be different—be genuinely valuable. Come prepared with unique insights, personal anecdotes, or contrarian viewpoints backed by experience. Dress professionally but let your personality show through your communication style. Avoid generic industry jargon and speak in your natural voice. The goal isn’t to shock but to offer perspectives that only you can provide based on your specific background and expertise. 2. Master the Art of Generous Participation Great panelists elevate everyone around them. Build on others’ points rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak. Use phrases like “Building on what Sarah just said…” or “That reminds me of a different angle…” When you disagree, do so respectfully and constructively. Ask thoughtful questions of fellow panelists that showcase their expertise. The audience will remember you as someone who made the entire discussion richer. 3. Be Strategically Concise Every word should earn its place. Prepare 2-3 key messages you want to convey and find natural ways to weave them throughout your responses. Use the “headline first” approach—state your main point upfront, then provide supporting details. Practice the 90-second rule: most panel responses should be under 90 seconds to maintain audience engagement. When you do speak longer, signal it: “Let me share three quick examples of this…” 4. Connect Beyond the Content Make eye contact with the audience, not just the moderator. Use inclusive language that brings the audience into the conversation. Reference specific moments from earlier in the event or acknowledge the unique context of the gathering. These touches show you’re fully present and engaged, not just delivering rehearsed talking points. 5. Leave Them with Something Actionable End strong by giving the audience something concrete they can implement immediately. This could be a specific question to ask themselves, a simple framework to try, or a resource to explore. Memorable panelists don’t just inform—they equip people to take their next step. The best panelists understand that their role isn’t to be the star of the show, but to make the entire experience more valuable for everyone in the room.