Tips for Moderating Panels at Conventions

[skogkatt]

Because Readercon is very soon now, csecooney asked for advice on moderating panels at conventions. It turns out I've done enough research and had enough experience that I actually had a lot to say on the subject. After our e-mail exchange Claire asked if I'd post my notes publicly, so here they are

Comments

[asakiyume]

These are excellent tips!

I have large personal anxiety about both the panels I'm on (each time I try to say, "but mostly this one," I realize the other makes me anxious too). Unlike last year, I've had no time to research the other panelists beyond their Readercon bios, and they're all--on both panels--hugely established writers.

I'll write you more later today about them, seeking advice....

[skogkatt]

I am sure you will be fine! Do write, and we can come up with strategies to make things less terrifying.

[time_shark]

Just wanted to say, even for someone who's moderated panels before, this is all great advice.

[skogkatt]

Thanks! You have a TON of experience, so that means a lot.

[negothick]

Ditto. I've had years of panel-moderating, and yours is the best and most simply-worded collection of wisdom.
Of course, now we need Part II: suggestions on what to do when sweet reason is not enough.
For example, the audience that refuses to wait their turn. The audience member who delivers a stunning shocker and refuses to stop talking. The panel member, ditto.
I'd add, too, that in the rare case (never happened to me at Readercon, but has done elsewhere)of a panel that is deadly dull, going nowhere, everyone tired, bored, etc.--it's OK to send people out a bit early.

[skogkatt]

You raise good points! I'm not sure if I have good advice for those questions, though. I was thinking that if I did a follow up at some point, it would be about how to be a good panelist, which involves a slightly different skillset.

[paulliver]

Ah, ReaderCon. Best convention I ever attended. Someday I hope to make it back. Someday...

[skogkatt]

If you do make it back sometime, feel free to say hello!

[sartorias]

That is excellent advice!

[skogkatt]

Thanks! I'm really glad that people with heaps of experience are finding it good. I've worked very hard to figure out how these things work, but I'm also relatively new to the con scene.

[ekaterin24]

Excellent instructions! I'm saving this to memories in case I ever get to moderate a panel.

I'm glad to hear from you again! I've been listening to Outer Alliance podcasts all along and love them! I'll send more squeeing to your email.

I won't be at Readercon *again* this year, going to Otakon again with a friend. And I went to con.txt last month--a small, cool slashfic/all-kinds-of-fanfic con.

[skogkatt]

Hello! Nice to hear from you, too! I'm glad you've been having fun! Do e-mail if you like. :)