It’s the new year, and your company is likely looking ahead at another packed calendar of industry events. So, we thought it would be a good time to share some ideas on how to make the most of any speaker slots you may have secured for 2024.
Here is a list of our top tips in the run-up to an upcoming panel discussion:
1. Swot up!
The likelihood is there will be lots of emails flying around between the time you confirm your participation and the day of the panel discussion. The event organisers will be asking for your headshot and your biography for their website, asking for you to send over any presentations/assets you may need during the panel discussion, and sharing a list of questions the moderator may ask. It can feel overwhelming, but make sure you take time to keep on top of all the logistics. This will mean you don’t feel panicked as the panel discussion draws closer.
2. Don’t go into it alone!
Are there people at your company that could help you with some killer statistics to make you stand out? Talk to the product development team about their latest projects, find out the key messaging your PR and marketing teams want to get across. That way you’ll be prepared to give the most compelling and accurate responses that reflect your whole business, not just your small part in it.
3. Let people know it’s happening
A simple post on your social media to let people know you’re taking part will hopefully mean a few more bums on seats. It’s also a good chance to ask what kind of things people are interested in when it comes to the topic you’re going to be talking about. This might help with the preparation for some of your talking points.
4. Give yourself plenty of time
Yes, trade shows and conferences are usually jam-packed with important client meetings, but you’ll be grateful if you give yourself some time before the panel discussion kicks off to have a coffee, go through your notes one last time, find the place you need to be (convention centres are typically very labyrinthine!) and importantly shake hands with your fellow panellists and the session’s moderator. Being on time is a sure-fire way to make a good first impression.
5. Lights! Camera! Action!
Can you get a colleague to record the session? If you manage to get some high-quality snippets, these could be used across your external or internal channels to highlight what your company has been up to. At the very least, watching it back will be a good learning and exercise for your next panel session.
6. Stick around afterwards
There are often folk who won’t ask a question during the Q&A part of your panel but will want to approach you afterwards when you come offstage. They could be a journalist writing an article on a related topic, or someone at a complimentary company who sees potential for a collaboration or partnership… The list goes on, and if you don’t allow time to talk with these people, you could end up missing out!
7. Grow your network
Did lots of people hand you their business cards after seeing your talk? Make sure you connect with them on LinkedIn or drop them an email to thank them. It may not yield much in the short term, but you never know when somebody may think of you or your company for a project or an opportunity in the future. You could also reach out and thank the moderator/event organiser for the chance to take part and let them know you’d be keen to do so again in future.
