Learn how to introduce yourself properly – it is a worthwhile investment.
As you know, appearing on a panel is a great marketing opportunity. And, you’ll get more from it if you impress from the start. That’s why we have coached so many great panellists and panel moderators.
How to introduce yourself on a panel
Be succinct. When you say less, you get to the heart of the matter faster. Plus, when you use fewer words, each word carries more weight.
You’ll find it’s more effective to deliver a great 15-second introduction (approx. 30 words) than a rambling two-minutes (250 words).
For example:
“I’m Ben, the founder of Benjamin Ball Associates. Business leaders use us to transform their pitches, presentations and talks so that they stand out.”
One strong idea is worth more than 20 vague concepts. Say just one thing, and say it well. Make it relevant to the main topic that the panel will be debating.
You’ll make a much more impact than someone who bores the audience by sharing too much.
For example,
“At ABC Ltd, we measure the real value of public open spaces. This helps all of us protect parks and countryside against future development.”
Help the audience remember your organisation, by referring back to your company name.
Rather than saying:
“We do this; we believe that…”
Instead say:
“At XYZ Ltd we do this; at XYZ Ltd we always…”.
Your audience will appreciate the reminder.
I Want To Shine on a Conference Panel
The chairperson may speak first, but don’t direct your response towards them. Speak to the audience.
Smile to convey warmth and confidence. Then, make eye contact with different people across the audience as you deliver your introduction.
Your natural passion for your topic will be dulled by the gap between you and the audience.
To compensate for this, dial up your energy and enthusiasm. It might mean ‘performing’ a bit more than feels natural, but that is what looks good on stage.
f you feel nervous, it’s common to lower your voice. Instead, channel your nervous energy into projecting your voice.
A great introduction is not easy. It comes from the time you spend perfecting and editing what you plan to say.
The more practiced you are, the more natural, confident and engaging it will look.
The more your prepare your panel, the more natural you will look
That’s one of the reasons why we film our clients during our coaching and training. Straight away, they become more objective about their performance and can see the impact they make.
Download our free guide for conference panelists.
You’ll get practical tips that will transform your conference panel appearances.
Even better, contact us and we can help you shine on your next conference panel.
I Want To Shine on a Conference Panel
Get support to refine your key messages, strengthen your delivery and stress-test your performance.
I Want To Shine on a Conference Panel
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“BBA transformed our pitch into a compelling investment narrative. They undoubtedly helped us secure Sky TV as an investor.”
Gerry Bastable Director, Blast Films
“The new presentation properly represents the institutional quality of our fund. It has been a step change for us.”
Erwin de Kleijn Head of IR, Saemor Capital
“We were very pleased…[BBA] helped us define and explain our unique value proposition. As a result we have attracted new and different investors.”
Florian Kemmerich Managing Partner, Bamboo Capital Partners
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