Dec 16, 2021
Why Moderated Q&As Are Popular With Audiences
Moderated Q&As are becoming one of the most popular keynote speaking formats for online events. In 2021, moderated Q&As shot into the top 20 topics at BigSpeak for the first time. The format is popular with celebrity keynote speakers, thought leaders, and audiences alike because it allows the speaker and audience to go more in-depth on a specific topic.
If you’re unfamiliar with moderated Q&As, here’s a quick breakdown of what moderated Q&As are, the difference between a moderated Q&A and a standard Q&A, and the four benefits of a moderated Q&A over a standard keynote.
What is a moderated Q&A?
A moderated Q&A (sometimes called a fireside chat) is a discussion in which a moderator or emcee asks a guest speaker questions that are prepared in advance on the speaker’s area of expertise. For example, a moderator might ask a celebrity about their charity work or ask a former CEO about their approach to business culture. Unlike a regular Q&A, the discussion takes place only between the moderator and the expert. The audience watches—but does not participate—in the discussion.
What is the difference between a moderated Q&A and a regular Q&A?
A regular Q&A (aka Question and Answer session) session is a time set aside at the end of a keynote or presentation in which the speaker answers questions asked directly from any audience member. There are several key differences between a moderated Q&A and a regular Q&A.
The first difference is the moderator. Moderated Q&As always have a moderator or emcee to field and direct the conversation. In regular Q&As, sometimes there is a moderator and sometimes the speaker fields questions directly.
The second difference is the questions that are asked. In a moderated Q&A, the questions are prepared in advance, crafted to the interests of the audience, and drive the entire discussion. During a regular Q&A, however, the questions are asked at the end, posed by any audience member, and often do not generate discussion.
What are the benefits of a moderated Q&A?
A moderated Q&A can be an exciting format and offers four main advantages over a standard keynote talk or Q&A session.
More intimate. Instead of a standard talk in which a speaker stands behind a lectern. The audience gets to see the speaker or celebrity in a more relaxed setting, sitting in comfy chairs. Since the talk is unrehearsed, there’s often more spontaneous emotion, details, and stories than you might get with a set presentation.
More fun. If there is a great moderator, the moderated Q&A can turn into a lively, entertaining, and focused discussion. The questions and answers feel more connected, rather than the randomness of an end-of-session Q&A. Moreover, the moderator can unpack those ideas and go much deeper with the guest on the topic.
Better questions. The prepared questions are often better than those raised during a standard Q&A. The moderator can ask very specific questions about current events, the industry, the company, and even how the answers relate to the exact attendees sitting in the audience. Audiences come away feeling they have learned something relevant and unique.
Great for online and in-person. Finally, moderated Q&A sessions are great for online and in-person events. In fact, some audiences find the format especially friendly to online events because everyone has a front-row seat from their computer.
If you’re interested in hosting a moderated Q&A session, BigSpeak works closely with its keynote speakers to produce exciting sessions. BigSpeak helps craft insightful questions and coaches keynote speakers on giving smooth, conversational answers that will delight and entertain your audience.