A Guide to Picking Great Panellists

Let's face it: putting together a knockout panel discussion isn't exactly a walk in the park. But here's the deal — get the right mix of speakers, and you're well on your way to an event that'll have everyone talking (in a good way, of course). So, how do you pull it off without breaking a sweat? Let's dive in.

How to Pick Panellists

1. Get Clear on Your Panel Goals

First things first, nail down what you're after:

• What's the main buzz you want to create?
• Which hot topics need to be on the table?
• What should your audience walk away thinking? What is the mindset shift?

Get this sorted, and you'll have a solid game plan for assembling your dream panel line-up.

2. Look For Diverse Voices

Gone are the days of cookie-cutter panels. Today, it's all about variety. Your audience will thank you for keeping things interesting.

• Aim for a good balance of genders, backgrounds, and experience levels
• Throw in a mix of industry veterans and rising stars
• Different perspectives = richer conversations

3. Search for Real-World Experts

Your panelists should know their stuff inside and out. Do a bit of digging on their background — it'll pay off. Always make sure you have watched a video of past performances.

• Access to a curated roster of top-tier experts and thought leaders
• Hunt for folks with serious chops in your topi
• Seek out the movers and shakers in the field (who just has a book out?)
• Find people who can break down complex ideas without putting everyone to sleep

READ MORE: Planning A Day-Long Event Program: Lessons from TEDx

4. Find the Smooth Talkers

Great panelists aren't just walking encyclopedias; they're also top-notch communicators:

• Look for people who can work a room (even if it's virtual)
• Check out their previous speaking engagements- do they keep the audience awake and engaged? Always make sure you watch a video.
• Consider how well they'll vibe with the other panelists, perhaps they might even know each other.

5. Explore Your Network

Time to call in those favors and connections, a warm intro can go a long way in landing your dream panelist.

• Hit up your colleagues for their top picks or people they've seen recently
• Reach out to industry groups or universities for recommendations
• LinkedIn can be a goldmine for finding the right people

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6. Spice It Up (But Not Too Much)

A little friendly debate can really get things going:

• Look for panelists with different takes on the topic
• Make sure no one's hogging the spotlight
• But steer clear of any major personality clashes — save the drama for reality TV
• Keep things running smoothly with an experience event host or event moderator

7. Know Your Audience

Think about who's going to be in the seats (or behind the screens):

• Industry event? Bring in the heavy hitters who speak the right language
• General audience? Maybe throw in a familiar face or two to keep things relatable (check out our celebrity speakers)
• Students in the crowd? Find someone who can dish out some real-world wisdom

READ MORE: Maximising the Impact of Discussion Panels: Expert Insights and Strategies

8. Book Speakers Early

Once you've got your shortlist:

• Reach out early - the best speakers book up faster than front-row concert tickets, up to a year ahead!
• Be crystal clear about what you're asking for
• Follow up promptly and keep the communication flowing

Go for panelists who seem genuinely stoked to be part of your event.

9. Let PepTalk Do the Heavy Lifting

Now, if all this sounds like a lot of work (and let's be honest, it can be), here's a pro tip: team up with a top-notch speaking agency like PepTalk. We're the experts in matching the right speakers to your event. Here's how we can make your life easier:

• Access to a curated roster of top-tier experts and thought leaders
• Streamlined booking process, saving you time and headaches
• Expert advice on speaker selection based on your specific needs
• Handling all the finer details, from contracts to logistics
• Ensuring your panelists are prepped and ready to rock your event

With PepTalk in your corner, you can focus on the big picture while we sweat the small stuff.

10. Checking All The Boxes

Finding the right panelists doesn't have to be a Herculean task. Whether you're diving in yourself or teaming up with pros like PepTalk, the key is to keep your eyes on the prize: creating a discussion that'll knock your audience's socks off.

Remember, a great panel is like a great party — it's all about getting the right mix of people together. So get out there, shake things up, and create an event that'll leave everyone hungry for more.

💡 Would you like to kick off your next panel discussion with an expert selection of speakers? Let us know, and we’ll find the perfect PepTalk expert for your organisation. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com or send us a message via the chat. You can also call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Remember, it’s always a good time to get a PepTalk!