Role of a Moderator in Critiques

May is a very quiet month for me – no big events, just a lot of editorial work and tests of new features we are implementing. Sounds like a perfect time to share a few tips and tricks gained from moderating numerous offline and online panel discussions and debates: if you're stepping into the role of a moderator, here are some key things to keep in mind. 🎤 Prepare, prepare, prepare. Dive deep into the topic and understand each panelist's background and perspective – it will help to develop a meaningful discussion and keep the conversation flowing. 🎤 Set clear expectations. Communicate the format, limitations, and discussion framework beforehand to panelists and the audience. Clarity fosters engagement and helps everyone stay on track. 🎤 Encourage diverse perspectives. Accept diversity of thought and encourage all panelists to share their unique opinions. It enriches the conversation and provides a well-rounded view of the topic. 🎤 Don't take sides. I have repeatedly seen situations where a moderator supports one viewpoint and is completely oblivious to the existence of other panelists: do I need to tell you how bad it looks? 🎤 Manage time wisely. Time management is crucial. Keep an eye on the clock, make sure all panelists participate in the conversation equally and leave room for audience questions. It doesn't matter whether it's a large-scale offline event with thousands of attendees, a cozy Twitter space or a Telegram AMA – effective moderation elevates the discussion and leaves a lasting impression. Feel free to invade the comments if you have to add something to this list!

If you’re observing a focus group and the participants start to change their mind based on one person’s POV, then you have chosen the wrong moderator, not the wrong methodology. It’s a common criticism that “group think” happens in focus groups. As someone who has sat on “both sides of the glass” (i.e., watching focus groups and moderating them), this dynamic only happens when the moderator allows that super opinionated person to take control of the conversation and dominate it. A good moderator will identify that person quickly, use conversational skills to redirect the conversation, and give others permission and space to cite their individual opinion. They’ll also notice cues like body language when they see a participant disagreeing or agreeing with others but not verbalizing (i.e., shutting down), and follow up accordingly. While it also helps to have people jot their reactions down on worksheets and for the moderator to review beforehand, I find that if people feel comfortable and respected in a group setting, they’re not going to change their mind. It’s not uncommon for me to have a focus group where one person adamantly disagrees with the other 5-7 people, and will consistently disagree for 30 or more minutes. The key is to keep the conversation going… sometimes it’s a bit of bobbing and weaving to draw others out and ensure that the conversation stays unbiased and constructive. Moderation is not an easy task… sometimes I liken it to having a dinner party with 8 strangers and making sure that everyone gets along. But done correctly, the results are invaluable. #focusgroups #marketresearch

One of the new opportunities I’ve embraced recently is stepping into the role of a moderator, a role that feels quite different from what I’ve been used to as a speaker or panelist. At first, I thought moderation was simply about asking questions and keeping time. But I’ve learned that it’s much more. It’s facilitating conversations that matter, sparking dialogue around sensitive topics, and guiding the room toward impact. During my recent ATC panel session, I felt the power of asking the right question at the right time and then stepping back to let the conversation flow. Watching panelists open up and the audience lean in reminded me that a moderator isn’t just a timekeeper, we’re conversation catalysts. So, I’ll like to share a few lessons I’ve learned with this experience: 1. Prepare deeply, but stay flexible – know your panelists and questions, but don’t be afraid to follow the flow of the discussion. 2. Balance the voices on the panel– ensure everyone gets time to speak and leave room for questions from the audience. 3. Listen more than you speak – the best moments often come when you really hear what’s being said, and build on it so there is a smooth transition between speakers. Moderation is a skill I’m growing into, and it’s teaching me patience, and the art of weaving diverse perspectives into one powerful conversation. Have you ever moderated a panel discussion before? What lessons did you take away from it? #Facilitation #PanelDiscussion #ATC2025