Public speaking can be a daunting task for many. The fear of being the center of attention can paralyze even the most confident individuals. However, there is a fantastic way to gain valuable speaking experience without the pressure of being in the spotlight: participating as a panelist in discussions. Being a panelist offers a low-pressure environment where you’re not the sole focus of the audience’s attention. Below are some tips to keep in mind when being a panelist.

1. Listen Carefully and Answer Precisely: When a question is directed at you during a panel, ensure you listen intently to the query. Responding to a question that wasn’t asked can lead to confusion and disrupt the flow of the discussion. It’s essential to provide concise, on-point answers to the questions posed.

2. Wait for the Question: It’s crucial to wait for the moderator to complete the question before responding. Jumping in prematurely can result in providing information that might not be relevant to the topic at hand. A disciplined approach to speaking helps maintain the panel’s coherence.

3. Be Concise: Long-winded responses can confuse the audience and dilute your message. Being succinct not only ensures you stay on track but also helps your audience retain the key takeaways from the discussion.

4. Understand the Format: It’s helpful for moderators to provide panelists with an understanding of the discussion format ahead of time. Knowing whether it’s a free-flowing conversation or if specific questions will be directed at individuals can make the discussion smoother.

Ultimately, the success of a panel lies in effective communication. By being attentive, precise, and organized, panelists can ensure that the audience gains actionable insights from their participation. So, whether you’re a technical professional or someone simply looking to enhance your public speaking abilities, consider joining a panel discussion as a stepping stone to improving your skills.