Moderator Training: Tips for Success 2012 New Mexico Graduate & Professional Student Conference

Opening Briefly reference the topic being discussed Create connections for your audience between the panel topic and current events, etc. Engage your audience The panel opening sets the tone of the panel discussion

Guest-Host Relationship Moderator as host Audience = welcome guests Audience members are investing time Guests are your first priority Smooth transitions Ensure that they feel their questions are answered

Keep the Focus on the Panel, Not You Warmly thank panelists at every opportunity As the host, it is your job to create a welcoming environment Make audience and panelists feel connected Always return to the topic at hand Refrain from stating your personal opinions

Practice Transitions “That is an excellent point ( / question), but I wonder if we could return to the principal topic” “In order to be respectful of everyone’s time, we should transition to …” “If you would please write that down, perhaps we could contact you with a list of resources”

Keep it Focused, but Enjoy Yourself The “Fabulous Four” – 3-4 panelists is ideal Read your audience; adapt the panel structure according to their needs Build community Smile; a panel is not a funeral

Good Luck!