How do you present effectively as a team or panel?

1 Choose your format

When structuring a team or panel presentation, there are several formats to choose from. Sequential presentations involve each speaker presenting a part of the topic in an ordered manner, with a brief introduction and conclusion from the moderator. Alternatively, parallel presentations involve each speaker discussing a different aspect of the topic, with some overlap and a summary or discussion at the end. Lastly, interactive presentations involve the speakers engaging in a conversation or debate on the topic, with the moderator facilitating and inviting questions from the audience. Before selecting your format, consider the main message or objective of your presentation, how many speakers are involved and their roles and expertise, how much time is available and how it will be divided among speakers, who the audience is and their expectations and interests, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each format for your topic and context.

2 Plan your content

Once you have decided on your format, it's time to collaborate and plan the content of your presentation. This includes coming to an agreement on the scope, outline, and key points, as well as how you will transition between speakers and sections. To get started, brainstorm ideas and information on your topic and sort them into categories or themes. Assign each speaker a specific category or theme that matches their expertise or interest. Then create an outline that displays the main points, subpoints, and examples for each speaker, as well as the introduction, conclusion, and transitions. Review and refine the outline as a team to ensure it is clear, coherent, and consistent. Finally, prepare slides, notes, or other visual aids with the same style, format, and language.

3 Practice your delivery

Practicing your delivery is essential for a successful team or panel presentation as it can help you boost confidence, clarity, and coordination, as well as identify and fix any issues or gaps in your content. To practice effectively, you should do it both individually and as a team, using the same equipment and setting as the actual presentation. Time yourself and stick to your allocated time, leaving some room for questions or comments. Focus on your voice, body language, and eye contact while avoiding distracting habits or filler words. Cue cards, notes, or prompts are allowed but don't read from them or memorize your script. Additionally, anticipate possible questions or challenges from the audience or moderator and prepare your responses. Finally, ask for feedback from teammates, peers, or mentors and incorporate their suggestions.

4 Engage your audience

Engaging your audience is essential for a team or panel presentation, as it will keep them interested, attentive, and involved in your topic. To do this, you can start with a hook that captures their attention and curiosity, such as a question, a story, a statistic, or a quote. Additionally, you can use humor, anecdotes, or examples that relate to your audience to illustrate your points. Invite your audience to share their opinions, experiences, or knowledge by asking questions, polls, or surveys. Furthermore, encourage interaction between the speakers and the audience and acknowledge their contributions. Finally, end with a call to action that motivates your audience to take action or learn more.

5 Handle questions

Handling questions is an important part of a team or panel presentation, as it allows you to clarify, elaborate, or defend your points, as well as demonstrate your knowledge and credibility. To be well prepared, it is recommended to listen carefully and respectfully to the questions, and repeat or rephrase them if necessary. Choose the most appropriate speaker to answer the question based on their expertise or role, and provide clear, concise, and relevant answers with evidence or examples. Avoid interrupting, contradicting, or criticizing your teammates; instead, build on their answers or offer different perspectives. If you do not know the answer, admit it and offer to follow up or refer to another source. Lastly, thank the questioner and the audience for their interest and attention.

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?