Here's how you can navigate conflicts from differing opinions in conference panel discussions.

2 Listen Actively

Active listening is crucial when navigating conflicts during a panel discussion. Pay close attention to what other panelists are saying, and show that you value their input by nodding or paraphrasing their points before offering your perspective. This not only demonstrates respect but also ensures that you fully understand their argument, which is essential for providing a thoughtful and relevant response.

3 Acknowledge Views

When conflicts arise, acknowledge the different viewpoints explicitly. By doing so, you create an environment where all opinions are considered valid and worth discussing. This approach encourages open dialogue and demonstrates a commitment to understanding and respecting diverse perspectives, which can help de-escalate tensions and keep the conversation productive.

4 Facilitate Constructively

If you're moderating the panel or find yourself in a de facto leadership role, facilitate the discussion constructively. Guide the conversation by asking open-ended questions that encourage thoughtful responses and steer panelists away from personal attacks or digressions. Your role as a facilitator is to ensure that the discussion remains focused and that all voices are heard equally.

5 Stay on Topic

During heated exchanges, it's easy for discussions to veer off-topic. To prevent this, gently steer the conversation back to the original question or theme of the panel. By doing so, you maintain the relevance of the discussion and ensure that the audience remains engaged with the subject matter that brought them to the conference in the first place.

6 Move On Gracefully

Knowing when to move on from a contentious point is an art. If the discussion hits a stalemate or becomes circular, suggest tabling the topic for a later time or continuing it offstage. This allows the panel to progress and addresses the issue without letting it dominate the entire discussion. Moving on gracefully shows that you respect both the panelists' time and the audience's interest in a dynamic and varied conversation.