Moderator; The Midwife of the Event

𝑴𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓 – 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒊𝒅𝒘𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕

In a recent interview with Annika Dopping, a renowned moderator and journalist, we delved into the crucial role of a moderator in creating a safe space for both the audience and the speakers. Annika eloquently described the moderator as the “midwife” of the event, emphasizing the importance of nurturing an environment where ideas can be born and flourish.

Creating a Safe Space

Annika highlights that the primary role of a moderator is to ensure that everyone involved feels safe and supported. This sense of security is vital for fostering open and honest communication, which in turn helps to bring out the best in the speakers and allows the audience to engage more deeply with the content.

The Midwife Metaphor

The metaphor of the moderator as a midwife is particularly apt. Just as a midwife supports and guides the birthing process, a moderator facilitates the flow of ideas and discussions, ensuring that the event’s objectives are met without overshadowing the participants. Annika points out that this involves a delicate balance of being present and proactive, a concept she refers to as “progressive presence.”

The Essentials of a Safe Space

Preparation and Understanding: Annika stresses the importance of thorough preparation. A moderator must understand the goals of the event and the key messages that the speakers aim to convey. This preparation allows the moderator to guide the conversation effectively and ensure that the discussion stays on track.

Creating Comfort: For speakers who may be uncomfortable or nervous, the moderator’s role is to create a sense of comfort. This can be achieved through a warm introduction, light humor, or by simply reassuring the speakers that the moderator is there to support them. Annika shares that when speakers feel taken care of, they are more likely to relax and engage more fully with the audience.

Managing the Flow: Just like a midwife who monitors the progress of labor, a moderator must manage the flow of the event. This means being attuned to the dynamics on stage and in the audience, and making adjustments as necessary.

Here are Annika’s three most valuable tips for what to do when an uncomfortable situation happens that risk ruining the safe space that you have worked hard to create:

1) Use humor

Using humor is a great way of de-escalating a situation, as long as it is done with respect to everyone involved. If possible try to use self-deprecating humour to draw the attention to yourself and away from the other person. Done right, humor deflects stress and makes people relax.

2) Own the stage

The audience need to feel that someone is in charge of an event, and that person is you as a moderator. This is extra important when things get shaky.

In the words of Annika: *You need to radiate control”.

3) Communicate value

As a moderator, it’s your job to make sure the audience gets something out of anything that happens at the event – even when something unexpected or unplanned happens. Help them make sense of what happened and then help guide them back to the track.

For example, when discussions veer off course or when a speaker loses their train of thought, a skilled moderator can gently guide them back. This involves understanding the core message and finding ways to steer the conversation without disrupting the flow.

Conclusion

Annika Dopping’s insights highlight that the role of a moderator extends beyond merely managing the event. It involves creating a nurturing environment where ideas can be safely explored and expressed. By acting as the midwife of the event, a moderator ensures that both speakers and the audience feel supported, leading to more meaningful and impactful discussions.

Finally, keep in mind that while a midwife is a trusted guide to a mother, she is also the person, who with a firm hand, will take control of a situation when things go wrong.

For those looking to book a moderator, these qualities of an “event midwife” are essential. A moderator who can create a safe space will undoubtedly enhance the success of any event. Whether you are a fellow moderator seeking to refine your skills or an event planner looking to hire the best, understanding these principles is key to fostering a productive and an engaging atmosphere.