How to Avoid Crickets at your Next Roundtable
4 minute read.
In the era of work-from-home and calendar-blocking, persuading people to attend in-person events can be a bit of a puzzle. But who doesn't love a good challenge?
The key is to make your roundtable so interactive, engaging, and worthwhile that it's simply too tempting to resist. Without active participation, even the most insightful content may fall flat.
So, here's your guide on how to rev up the conversation and interaction at your next roundtable event.
Sharing is Caring: The Power of Peer Learning
Roundtables are all about mutual learning and exchanging ideas. That's where your customer speakers come into their own. With their unique insights, best practices, and real-world experiences, these folks are like your conversation superheroes.
When attendees, especially the top brass, hear from their peers, they're more likely to engage. So, get those industry veterans and thought leaders who can spark an insightful chat!
Be Prepared: Not Just a Motto for Scouts
Planning a successful roundtable event is a bit like planning a successful journey. You wouldn't just set off without a map, would you? Sure, an unplanned question can add a dash of spontaneity, but relying too much on improvisation could lead to uneven conversations or, dare we say it, awkward silences. So, ensure you have a list of 10 meaty questions before the event. This keeps the dialogue flowing, leading to more thoughtful and in-depth responses.
Harness the Power of the Crowd
Want to really stoke up the engagement levels? Get your attendees involved before the event even begins by asking them about the topics they want to discuss. It's like asking the crowd to pick the playlist - they will be more excited and invested.
Plus, you can ensure the conversation is all about their actual interests, leading to a more satisfying and productive roundtable.
Set the Scene
Don't underestimate the power of a good setting. Aim for an intimate space with a single table where everyone can easily hear and see each other. It's like setting the stage for a great get-together - the right environment can encourage interaction and make everyone feel more comfortable to join the conversation.
Role-Playing: More Than Just Fun and Games
Who said roundtables should be all talk and no play? Add a splash of fun by incorporating role-play scenarios. It's an engaging way to switch things up and get everyone involved. Plus, role-playing can bring complex concepts or scenarios to life and give participants a chance to see things from a different perspective.
So, there you have it! Driving conversation and interaction at your roundtable is all about creating an environment that encourages active participation, learning, and, yes, fun. By tapping into the power of peer speakers, preparing questions in advance, getting attendees involved in the agenda, setting up the right environment, and sprinkling in some role-playing, your roundtable invites will soon be the hottest tickets around.
The ultimate goal is to create an experience that's worth leaving the home office for and something they'll eagerly mark on their calendar for next time.
Need help with structuring your roundtable discussions? You’re in luck, because that’s what we do, so Get in touch.
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