What is the best way of facilitating an audience Q&A as a moderator?

Mastering audience Q&A sessions can make or break an event’s success, especially as the events industry continues to evolve in 2024. With the global events market projected to reach $2 trillion by 2028, effective audience engagement has become more crucial than ever. This is particularly true for hybrid events, where 50% of organizers report challenges moderating Q&A sessions with virtual and in-person audiences.

To help event professionals navigate these challenges, we’re bringing insights from experienced industry leaders. Our first expert contributor is Samantha Simmonds, a distinguished BBC News presenter and corporate event host with over two decades of broadcasting experience. Having moderated high-profile events for organizations like Deloitte, Sainsbury’s, and the Department of Trade and Industry, Samantha brings valuable expertise in facilitating engaging audience interactions while maintaining professional control of the room. Let’s explore Samantha’s proven strategies for managing effective Q&A sessions that keep audiences engaged and discussions flowing smoothly.

Samantha Simmonds

BBC News presenter and corporate event host Samantha Simmonds, who has moderated high-profile events for organizations like Deloitte and the Department of Trade and Industry, outlines two primary approaches to facilitating audience Q&A sessions effectively.

Traditional Method

The classic approach involves using a roving microphone system where audience members raise their hands to participate. Moderators should instruct participants to stand, state their name, and direct their question to a specific panelist. A crucial best practice is emphasizing that participants should ask focused questions rather than make statements, which helps maintain session efficiency and engagement.

Digital Integration

Modern Q&A facilitation has evolved to incorporate technology-driven solutions. Platforms like Slido, accessed through apps, iPads, or QR codes, allow attendees to submit questions digitally at the start of events. This digital approach offers several advantages:

Quality Control: Event teams can filter submissions behind the scenes, ensuring only the most relevant and appropriate questions reach the panel.

Efficiency Management: Digital platforms help streamline the Q&A process, particularly beneficial for larger audiences or hybrid events where traditional microphone passing might be impractical.

The combination of traditional and digital methods gives moderators flexibility to choose the most appropriate approach based on their event’s specific needs, audience size, and technical capabilities. Whether opting for classic audience interaction or embracing modern technology, the key is maintaining clear communication protocols and ensuring questions remain focused and relevant.