How did you start your moderation journey?
I started my moderation journey in November 2022 when I was asked to facilitate a discussion on Accelerating Data-Driven Action in Financial Services. Due to my business transformation background, I was discovered on LinkedIn, and I had the consulting experience to maneuver between different topics.
What do you find most exciting about moderating?
What I find most exciting in moderating is getting people to talk about their experiences and elicit things that are not being said. Once I am able to get to an emotional connection with their story, it is amazing how others react to similar experiences or take different perspectives on a topic.
How do you typically prepare to moderate an Ortus event?
I typically prepare by first learning the questions crafted for the moderation and their true purpose for asking the question as it relates to the host. Ultimately, it is discovering what the host is trying to learn from the panel.
What tips and tricks would you recommend for those aspiring to become moderators?
The most important tip or trick is learning the names of the attendees and panel members, their associated organizations, and their purpose or role in those organizations. Once I make a mental note of their association and purpose, I weave in those points when I ask them questions. In doing so, we become more personal, their connection to the question becomes greater, and so does their response.
In what ways has moderating contributed to your growth as a leader in your field?
Moderating discussions has made me a better listener each time I learn about a topic or an experience in an organization.
How has moderating contributed to your personal and professional growth?
Moderating has contributed to my personal networking growth and professionally made me aware of how different industries approach a problem.
