A panel discussion can be a great way to connect with your audience and get different perspectives on a topic. However, for a panel discussion to be successful, you need to have the right mix of panelists. And once you have assembled your dream team of experts, you need to make sure you are asking the right questions.
25 Questions to ask your panelists about the discussion:
- What perspective will you bring to the discussion?
- What do you think is the most important issue we will discuss?
- What do you think our audience would like to know about this topic?
- What are some of the most common misconceptions about this topic?
- How did you become aware of this topic?
- What are some of the challenges you have faced with this topic?
- Who do you admire most when it comes to their work on this topic?
- What are some of the successes you have seen on this topic?
- Are there any international perspectives we should consider on this topic?
- Are there controversial issues in this area/topic that we should be aware of?
- What do you think is the most controversial aspect of this issue?
- Whose opinion do you respect, even if you do not agree with it?
- What are some of the possible solutions to this issue?
- What do you think is the biggest obstacle keeping us from solving this issue?
- How can we better educate people about this issue?
- Are there groups or individuals who are particularly vulnerable when it comes to this issue?
- How has your work on this issue changed or evolved?
- What advice would you give to someone studying this topic?
- What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to learn more about this topic?
- Do you have any final thoughts or comments about this topic that we have not covered yet?
- Are there any ethical concerns in this topic that we should be aware of?
- What common misconceptions about this area can we dispel today?
- How does intersectionality play a role in this field/topic? (For example, how do race, gender, class, etc.)
- Whose voices are missing from the discussion around this topic? How can we ensure they are included in the future?
- What actions can our audience take after today’s panel discussion to effect positive change in this issue?
22 Questions to ask about the panelist:
- What is your area of expertise?
- What inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
- What do you think sets your work apart from others in your field?
- What do you think are the most important skills for someone in your field?
- What do you think are the biggest challenges for someone in your field?
- What do you think has been the most exciting or rewarding part of your career?
- What do you think was the most exciting or interesting project you worked on?
- What do you think would be the biggest challenge for someone new to your field?
- What do you think are the most important things for someone in your field to remember?
- What do you think are the biggest mistakes someone in your field can make?
- What do you think are the best ways for someone in your field to stay current and relevant?
- Are there any emerging trends or technologies in your field that excite you?
- How do you stay creative and innovative in your work?
- How do you deal with stress and burnout?
- How do you balance work and private/family life?
- What do you wish you had known when you started your professional career?
- Are there common misconceptions about your industry or field that you would like to dispel?
- Can you give us an example where you went above and beyond for a customer or client?
- What would you like more people to know about your field?
- Do you have any funny or memorable stories from your time in your field of work?
- Are there any books or resources you would recommend to someone who wants to learn more about your field?
- Do you have any advice for people looking to get into your industry or field?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare for a panel?
There are a few things you can do to prepare for a panel. First, make sure you are familiar with the topic that will be discussed. You do not want to be unprepared and not know what will be discussed. Also, try to think of some questions you would like answered during the panel. This will help you stay engaged and get the most out of the discussion. Be respectful of the other panelists and the audience. Be sure to listen to everyone and avoid talking over others.
What is the main purpose of a panel discussion?
A panel discussion is a forum where experts on a particular topic share their insights and perspectives with the audience. The main purpose of a panel discussion is to provide participants with the information they can use to make informed decisions. Panel discussions are also a great way to connect with other professionals in your field.
What makes a good panel discussion?
A good panel discussion is one in which the audience is engaged and the panelists are knowledgeable. The audience should feel that the discussion is beneficial to them, and the panelists should be able to communicate their insights in an engaging way.
What are the disadvantages of a panel discussion?
A disadvantage of a panel discussion is that the discussion can be derailed by one person’s comments. This can lead to a chaotic and unproductive conversation. In addition, panel discussions can be time-consuming and may not be the best way to get input from a large number of people.
Conclusion
Asking questions is one thing, but asking the right questions is quite another. The goal of a panel discussion is to foster learning and understanding about a particular topic – and the questions you ask play a big role in achieving that goal! With these questions, you can ensure that your panelists provide thoughtful, insightful answers that leave your audience informed and engaged.
