How do you create a dynamic session with other speakers?

1 Know your goals

Before you start designing your session, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you want to deliver your message. What is the main theme or purpose of your session? How does it fit into the overall conference agenda? What are the key takeaways or outcomes for your audience? How will you measure your success? Having a shared vision and objectives with your co-speakers will help you align your content, structure, and tone.

2 Know your audience

Another essential step is to understand who you are speaking to and what they expect from your session. Who are they? What are their backgrounds, interests, and needs? What are their pain points, challenges, or goals? How familiar are they with your topic? How will they benefit from your session? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your content, language, and examples to their level, preferences, and motivations.

3 Know your co-speakers

One of the most important aspects of creating a dynamic session with other speakers is to build rapport and trust with them. You need to know their strengths, weaknesses, and personalities, and how they complement or contrast with yours. You also need to communicate frequently and openly with them, and establish clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations. How will you divide the time, topics, and tasks among yourselves? How will you introduce, transition, and conclude your session? How will you handle questions, feedback, or disagreements? Having a good relationship and coordination with your co-speakers will help you avoid confusion, repetition, or conflict.

4 Know your format

Depending on the type, length, and goal of your session, you may choose different formats to deliver your content and interact with your audience. For example, you may opt for a panel discussion, a fireside chat, a case study presentation, a workshop, or a Q&A session. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, and requires different skills, tools, and techniques. You need to know the pros and cons of each format, and how to adapt your content, style, and delivery to suit it. You also need to consider the logistics, such as the venue, equipment, and time constraints.

5 Know your value

Finally, you need to know what makes your session unique and valuable for your audience. What is your main message or point of view? What is your expertise or experience? What is your story or angle? How do you stand out from other speakers or sessions? How do you add value to your audience's knowledge, skills, or emotions? Knowing your value will help you craft a compelling and relevant session that captures and retains your audience's attention and interest.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?