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Panel Best Practices

Updated over a week ago

Congratulations on being invited to participate in a Leland panel! These events are fantastic opportunities to showcase your expertise to hundreds of potential clients and build your coaching brand. Here are the key strategies to help you make the most impact and convert leads from your panel appearance.

Before the Panel

Prepare Your Key Messages

Don't wing it—successful panelists always come prepared. Develop 2-3 core talking points that showcase your expertise and the unique value you bring to clients. Consider:

  • Your signature coaching approach or methodology

  • A compelling success story from a former client (with permission)

  • A unique perspective that sets you apart from other coaches

Research the Other Panelists and Audience

Understanding your audience and fellow speakers helps identify opportunities to complement or respectfully disagree, knowing their demographics, pain points, and session goals.

Craft Your Introduction

Your introduction is your first impression with hundreds of potential clients. Prepare a compelling 30-60 second introduction that establishes your credibility and hints at the value you provide. Include:

  • Your specific coaching niche

  • Years of experience or notable credentials

  • A brief mention of client results you've achieved

Prepare a Discount Code

You will be in front of many high-intent leads. Come prepared with a time-sensitive discount or a clear CTA that the team can share to convert more leads!

During the Panel

Be Conversational + Energetic, Not Presentation-Heavy

Great panels feel like engaging conversations between smart people. Listen actively to other panelists, build on their points, and create dialogue rather than delivering mini-monologues. Show engagement through your body language and facial expressions. Energy is always appreciated to keep the vibes high!

Use Stories and Specific Examples

Abstract advice is forgettable—stories stick. Reference specific client transformations (anonymized) to illustrate your points. For example: "I worked with a client who was struggling with [specific challenge], and by implementing [your approach], they achieved [specific result] in [timeframe]."

Position Yourself as the Expert

Don't be modest—you're on this panel because you're an expert. Share insights confidently, reference your experience, and don't hesitate to offer a perspective that differs from other panelists if it's authentic to your approach.

Bridge to Your Value Proposition

Use natural transitions to connect questions back to your expertise. For example: "That's exactly the type of challenge I help executives overcome in my leadership coaching practice..."

Converting Leads from Your Appearance

Reference Past Client Success

Throughout the discussion, weave in examples of transformations you've facilitated. This builds credibility and helps attendees envision working with you. Use specific metrics when possible: "My client increased their team's productivity by 40% within three months."

Offer Practical, Actionable Advice

Give attendees valuable takeaways they can implement immediately. This demonstrates your expertise while leaving them wanting more comprehensive guidance through coaching.

Be Authentic and Relatable

Share appropriate personal experiences or challenges. This builds connection and trust—essential factors in converting prospects to clients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't monopolize airtime. Share the spotlight and respect other panelists' expertise.

Don't make it a sales pitch. Focus on providing value—sales will naturally follow when you demonstrate expertise.

Don't be afraid to disagree. If you have a contrarian view, prepare to defend it respectfully and confidently.

Don't forget your purpose. While providing value is important, remember you're there to attract potential clients. Every answer should subtly reinforce your expertise and unique approach.

🖥️ Technical Reminders

✅ Test your audio and video setup beforehand

✅ Ensure good lighting (ring lights work well) 💡

✅ Have a backup internet connection ready 📶

✅ Prepare for potential technical glitches with grace and humor 😄

🤝 Making Lasting Connections

Panel appearances on Leland give you access to hundreds of potential clients at once! 🌟

Focus on demonstrating the transformation you provide rather than just describing your services. When attendees see the results you've achieved for others, they'll naturally want to learn how you can help them achieve similar success.

💎 Remember: Great panelists don't just share information—they inspire action and make attendees think, "I need to work with this person."


💬 Have questions about your upcoming panel? Reach out to the Leland team for additional support and guidance.

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