5 Simple Tips to Master Panel Speaking Opportunities
Before you get up on stage again, consider these five (recently tested) tips.
By Mark Pasetsky, CEO of Mark Allen & Co., [email protected]
As head of a PR firm, I counsel clients weekly—if not daily—on how to handle speaking engagements. We cover everything from getting ready to topic selection to handling surprise questions from the audience.?
And while I consider myself somewhat of an expert on the topic, it wasn’t until I recently spoke on a panel at Cannes Lions that I learned a few extra tips (and reaffirmed some of the pointers I’ve been sharing for years).??
It all comes down to preparation and execution. Before you get up on stage again, consider these (recently tested) tips.
1. GET READY EARLY
Remember: Preparation should begin long before the event. High-profile annual events like SXSW and Cannes Lions, for example, require speaker submissions well in advance. But even if there’s no formal application process, it’s crucial to carefully consider your topic and the specific expertise you bring to the table.?
Work to develop a clear, succinct description of your company, and align your key talking points and examples with the panel’s theme. This foresight ensures your contributions are relevant and impactful for the audience.
2. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Preparation goes beyond knowing your talking points, though. Moderators typically provide questions in advance, but you should also anticipate broader themes and potential discussions that might come up. Research the moderator and your fellow panelists to understand their perspectives—especially if the topic is at all controversial.
Another tip? Stay updated on current news to enhance your preparedness—including any breaking news of the day that might arise during the conversation.
3. REHEARSE TO BUILD UP YOUR CONFIDENCE
Practice your introduction and business pitch until they are second nature. Rehearse out loud, and practice in front of a mirror or a colleague to build your confidence and refine your delivery.
Familiarity with the venue can also boost your confidence, so visit beforehand if possible. On the day of the event, arrive early to settle in and reduce your anxiety. Plan your outfit in advance to ensure you look professional and feel comfortable, stay hydrated, and make sure you’ve eaten.
During the panel, be sure to speak up—but avoid dominating the conversation. Speak slowly, maintain eye contact with the audience, focus on your posture, and don’t forget to smile. Remember: This is a performance, and even natural speakers rehearse extensively.
4. TAILOR YOUR MESSAGE TO THE AUDIENCE
Get insight from the event organizers about who is in the audience and what they’re looking to gain from the discussion. On the panel, make sure to offer some practical anecdotes, solutions, and examples, and use short, declarative statements that are easy for attendees to note or share on social media.?
Avoid information overload. Instead, focus on delivering a few powerful, well-articulated points. Given time constraints, know that you won’t cover all your points—so prioritize your key messages.
5. PROMOTE YOURSELF BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT
Share your participation on social media by tagging your fellow panelists and the event itself; often, organizers will share promotional graphics specifically for this purpose. Even if someone isn’t attending the event, showcasing your involvement can be a great boost for your reputation.
During the event itself, get someone to take pictures of you and share them on social media, tagging your fellow panelists to maximize connection and impact. Capturing videos can be a great idea too; beyond promotional purposes, these videos can be used for future speaking submissions.?
HERE’S THE BOTTOM LINE
Panel speaking opportunities present an invaluable chance for C-suite executives to shine, helping them engage with key influencers in their industry, present themselves as subject matter experts, and get across key talking points about their business. Make the most of your time on stage with these simple but valuable tips.?