The question-and-answer part of a panel is often the liveliest moment of a session. It is also one of the best opportunities for delegates to be noticed: a sharp, thoughtful question tells the room, and the speakers, that you know your subject. Here is how to make yours count.
Listen with a purpose
Good questions start with good listening. During the discussion, note points where the speakers disagreed, claims that deserve more detail or practical issues that were not addressed. Questions that build on what was actually said are far more interesting than questions prepared in advance and asked regardless.
Keep it short
A question should be a question, not a speech. Introduce yourself in one sentence, with your name and organization, then ask your question in one or two sentences. If you need to give context, keep it to a single line. Moderators and audiences appreciate brevity, and short questions get better answers.
Ask one question at a time
Questions in several parts are hard to remember and easy to dodge. Choose your most important point; if time allows, you can always follow up after the session.
Make it open and specific
Questions that start with "how" or "what" invite richer answers than those that can be answered with yes or no. Specific questions work better than general ones: instead of "What do you think about the future of trade?", try "Which regulatory change would most help small exporters in the next two years?"
Direct it well
If your question is for one panellist, say so. If it is for the whole panel, invite a brief answer from each. Be respectful when you disagree: challenge ideas, not people.
Speak clearly into the microphone
Wait for the microphone, hold it close and speak slowly, especially in an international room where many people are listening in a second language. If the session is interpreted, a steady pace helps the interpreters too.
Continue the conversation
A good question often opens the door to a conversation with the speaker after the session. Approach them briefly, thank them for their answer and, if appropriate, exchange contact details. Other delegates who were interested in your question may come to you as well.
Asking questions is a skill, and like any skill it improves with practice. The next time the moderator opens the floor, take the opportunity: you may start the most valuable conversation of the day.