From Good to Great: 5 Proven Tips on How to Excel as a Moderator or Interviewer

When I officially launched Renewables in Africa (RiA) in 2017, I was eager to share my vision and insights with the world. My very first speaking gig at a conference was in Ghana that same year, where I had the dual role of moderating a panel and giving a presentation. I was nervous, to say the least! But that experience lit a fire in me.

Fast forward seven years, and between external speaking engagements and my own platforms—Are you watching Sunday with Tony, One Day, One Concept, and our webinars?—I’ve had the privilege of moderating and speaking at hundreds of events. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few key strategies that have helped me go from a nervous first-timer to a confident moderator and speaker.

For my colleagues like Babalwa Mni and Caleb Arkoh-Duodu .A (ICMS - POSH) , who are also building their careers in this space, and for anyone else looking to improve their skills, here are five tips to excel as a moderator or interviewer:

1. Do Your Homework

Preparation is everything. Seriously!!Before stepping into the role of a moderator or interviewer, make sure you’ve done your research on the topic and the participants. Understand their backgrounds, the nuances of the subject matter, and any recent work or achievements they might bring to the table.

Why It Matters: A well-prepared moderator not only sets the tone for a smooth and insightful discussion but also shows respect for the panelists and the audience. Your readiness will shine through in the quality of your questions and the flow of the conversation.

2. Set the Tone and Purpose Early

Start your session by clearly stating the purpose and setting the tone. Introduce the topic, provide some context, and let your audience know what they can expect from the session. This not only frames the conversation but also helps everyone involved stay on track.

Why It Matters: Setting the tone from the start helps keep the conversation focused and ensures that everyone is aligned with the goals of the session. It makes for a more cohesive and engaging experience for both the panelists and the audience.

3. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid yes/no questions and aim for open-ended ones that allow your guests to elaborate on their thoughts and experiences. Questions like “Can you tell us about…?” or “What’s your perspective on…?” invite richer, more informative responses and make for a far more engaging discussion.

Why It Matters: Open-ended questions lead to deeper insights and give your guests the opportunity to shine. They help to build a dynamic conversation rather than a rigid Q&A session.

4. Be an Active Listener

Your job isn’t just to ask questions—it’s also to listen. Pay close attention to your guests’ answers, and be prepared to pivot your questions or dig deeper into interesting points. This can lead to spontaneous, more meaningful dialogue that resonates with the audience.

Why It Matters: Active listening shows your guests and audience that you’re genuinely engaged. It also enables you to follow up with thoughtful questions that can steer the conversation into unexpected and valuable directions.

5. Manage Time and Flow Effectively

A great moderator keeps an eye on the clock. Make sure every panelist has a chance to contribute and that key points are covered within the allotted time. If the discussion starts to drift off-topic, gently guide it back on course.

Why It Matters: Time management keeps the session running smoothly and ensures that it remains relevant and engaging for the audience. It also shows respect for everyone’s time, making the experience more enjoyable for all involved.

Conclusion

Public speaking and moderating can be nerve-wracking at first, but with practice and these tips, you can go from good to great. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, remember that every opportunity to speak or moderate is a chance to grow and make an impact.

Don’t miss the chance to put these tips into action at our upcoming event, organised together with afonso faria and AFF windservices on Tuesday, 17 September. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just getting started, there’s always room to grow. Here is the magical registration link: https://bit.ly/3RNbo3W

Tony Tiyou is the founder and CEO of Renewables in Africa (RiA) is a Clean Energy Company raising Awareness about Renewable Energy in Africa and across the globe.

Also, when you are ready, here are three ways that we can help you:

1-Listen to “Renewables in Action” Podcast. Every forthnight, there is a new conversation about clean energy challenges, opportunities or interview. Just listen here.

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