What does the Panelist do?
Here are a few guidelines we've put together on how to prepare for a panel, and what to do at the convention before, during, and after the panel…
BE PREPARED BEFORE THE CON
Choose the right panel for you! Mostly, you will sign up for topics that appeal to you. If you are faithfully watching shows and movies, reading books, playing games, etc., then topics on these items are usually your best choice.
If you are talking about a topic with any technical or factual details, try to make printouts for yourself to review both before and during your panel. It never hurts to have your facts straight!
When signing up as a panelist, please let us know in advance whether we can distribute your email address to your co-panelists for panels. This allows you to introduce yourselves and sort out your topics of discussion, should you desire. We also encourage you to use the 'Get with the Program' section of the TCON Message Board to help co-ordinate and publicize your panels.
AT CON BEFORE YOUR PANEL
Make sure you sign in at Panelist Registration to get your Panelist Package. Last minute details will be included there. We request that all panelists sign in and get their package two hours before their first panel.
The Programming Lounge makes a great place to grab a light snack and meet your co-panelists before a panel.
YOUR TURN TO SPEAK! Where appropriate, encourage audience participation. Keep the discussion moving so that everyone feels involved. Watch for people who have something to add to the discussion. Defer to the Moderator for "who speaks next". The goal is discussion and interaction. Remember that the audience is part of the panel too. Use the microphone when available.
OTHER TIPS
Wear a watch! Remember that the panel is actually only 50 minutes, not an hour. Try to wrap up the conversation on time to get out of the way of the next panelists. And remember: if you start late, it does NOT mean that you can run late! Please be fair to the next group using the room.
YOUR OPINION IS IMPORTANT!
After the panel, make sure you fill in your Panel Survey sheet to return to the Programming Team. It's your opinions and suggestions that let us know what to keep doing well or improve on the next year! You can return these at the Convention, and save the stamps!
Most importantly: Have fun!! And try to help make it fun for everyone else, too!
