How to Save a Boring Panel Discussion (Before the Audience Falls Asleep)

We have all been there. Three experts sitting on stools. A moderator asking long, prepared questions. The audience politely clapping while checking their phones.

The "Panel Discussion" is a staple of corporate events, but it is often the lowest energy point of the day. Why? Because it’s passive. It’s a monologue disguised as a conversation.

If you want a panel that sizzles, you need to hand the microphone to the audience. Here is how to do it with RiLiFi.

1. Kill the "Raise Your Hand" Q&A

Running around with a physical microphone is slow. Plus, only the loudest extroverts ask questions (and usually, they just make a statement instead of asking a question).

The Fix: Use a digital Live Q&A Board.

• Audience members type questions on their phones.
• Other attendees "Upvote" the best ones.
• The Moderator asks the top-voted questions.

This ensures you are answering what the whole room wants to know, not just what "Bob from Accounting" wants to say.

2. The "Hot Take" Poll

Start with controversy. Before the panelists speak, ask the room a tough question.

• Poll: "Will AI replace developers by 2030?"
• Result: 60% Yes / 40% No.

Now, ask the panelists to react to that specific data. "Wow, 60% of the room thinks you are wrong. Why is that?" It creates instant debate.

Conclusion

Don't let your experts talk at the room. Let them talk with the room. Make the audience part of the show.

Planning an event? Set up a Live Q&A board for free.