How did you start your moderation journey?
I was invited to speak at events as a keynote speaker on a couple of topics, mostly entrepreneurship and e-commerce, usually giving a small- and medium-enterprise perspective. After a few speaking engagements, I was asked to facilitate discussions by being on panels while also adding my point of view.
What do you find most exciting about moderating?
I learned more about the various concerns the audience has and how others are solving similar problems. Although attendees come from different backgrounds or industries, through further discussions, we realise that the different challenges we face stem from similar roots. We get to share our notes and find more creative ways to address the problems and adapt them to our own processes.
How do you typically prepare to moderate an Ortus event?
There’s usually a call to discuss outcomes and the dos and don’ts of the event. I’m usually up to speed on the topics, so I draft some questions that I would like answered and attempt to answer them beforehand. I do my own research prior to events to help me gain more insight into what topics could be brought up by the attendees and give me ideas on how we could discuss with the rest of the group.
What tips and tricks would you recommend for those aspiring to become moderators?
It’s important to engage all participants and layer answers when speaking to different industries. The group will most likely have a mix of people across industries and also different types of goods and services. Sometimes, it’s nice to get an answer from a B2B player and then switch to a B2C player so it covers the spectrum. Also, opening the questions up for input will give more vocal speakers time to dive deeper into the topic.
In what ways has moderating contributed to your growth as a leader in your field?
Moderating during events allows me to connect and network with leaders, experts, and disruptors in different fields. More than building new business relationships, I am also given the privilege of nurturing current connections. When I moderate events, I also get to be at the table where a lot of emerging trends and forward-thinking discussions are taking place. Each discussion presents new and creative ways to be at the forefront of the industry.
How has moderating contributed to your personal and professional growth?
An obvious answer is how it has challenged and sharpened my communication skills. Not only do I get to train myself to be a public speaker, but I also personally connect with leaders before and after the discussion. Collaboration is also a skill set that has been honed through my event moderation. Sitting at a table full of professionals and industry leaders in their own rights can be intimidating, but moderating has trained me to connect ideas and see the big picture.
