Panel Discussion

What is a Panel Discussion?

A panel discussion is a moderated discussion of a panel of experts in front of an audience. Several experts examine a topic from different perspectives, led by a moderator.

Panel Discussion in Detail

The panel discussion is a widespread format at conferences, congresses, and public events. On the podium sits a “panel” – several experts or representatives of different positions – led through the conversation by a moderator. The aim is to illuminate a topic from several angles and make it understandable and lively for the audience. For the participants, the challenge is twofold: to convince on substance and at the same time to make themselves heard in a group. It is not only the best argument that decides, but also visibility, speaking share, conciseness, and the ability to engage with others or distance yourself (alliance building). Good panel participants bring clear key messages, listen, respond with quick wit and respect, and use their speaking time efficiently. Because panel discussions are often public and partly broadcast, preparation is worthwhile – on the topic, the fellow discussants, and your own role.

In practice, the panel discussion is doubly challenging: to convince on substance and at the same time to make yourself heard in a group. It is not only the best argument that decides, but also visibility, speaking share, conciseness, and the ability to engage with others or distance yourself. Good panel participants bring clear key messages, listen, respond with quick wit and respect, and use their speaking time efficiently. It is proven practice to set your own standpoint early and concisely, recognize allies, and mark opposing positions factually rather than personally. Because panel discussions are often public and partly broadcast, preparation on the topic, the fellow discussants, and your own role is worthwhile. A composed appearance often works more strongly here than sheer density of facts.

What matters in a Panel Discussion?

The panel discussion illuminates a topic from several perspectives, led by a moderator. For participants, what counts is to convince on substance and at the same time make themselves heard – through clear key messages, conciseness, speaking share, and how you deal with the others.

Panel Discussion – Examples in Practice

At a conference, a panel of four experts discusses the future of the industry. An expert deliberately sets her key messages in the group. A participant distances himself pointedly but respectfully from an opposing position.

Panel Discussion: Key Features at a Glance

• Format: a moderated discussion of a panel
• Aim: illuminate a topic from several perspectives
• Challenge: convince and make yourself heard
• Tools: key messages, speaking share, quick wit
• Preparation: topic, fellow discussants, your own role

Related Terms

• Debate
• Discussion Training
• Alliance Building
• Speaking Share
• Quick-Wittedness

Would you like to convince on the panel? We support you with our Discussion Training.

Panel Discussion: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a panel discussion?

A moderated discussion of a panel of experts in front of an audience, in which several experts examine a topic from different perspectives.

What matters as a panel participant?

To convince on substance and at the same time make yourself heard – through clear key messages, conciseness, a good speaking share, and respectful dealing with others.

What is the difference between a panel discussion and a debate?

The panel discussion illuminates a topic from several perspectives, often cooperatively. The debate is a regulated pro-and-con exchange with fixed rules.

How do you prepare for a panel discussion?

By knowing the topic, the fellow discussants, and your own role, bringing clear key messages, and practicing the efficient handling of speaking time.