Event Format - Expert Panel
What is this page?
This is an event guide for hosting a Climate Expert Panel.
Explore other event guides here.
Connect with Lowell Bander if you need help
Primary goal - share valuable knowledge
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Show off local experts who can teach about their success and challenges
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Help build valuable connections
Here's a short writeup and video from a panel in Seattle
There are 5 steps
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Pick a Venue
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Create a Sharable Event
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Share the Event
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Show Up
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Share the Results
STEP ONE: Pick a Venue
Make a list of potential venues.
Consider
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Size (not to small)
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Location (easy to get to)
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Amenities (food and drinks, chairs for the audience)
As your list of venues grow, Share It for future reference with other organizers.
Special Considerations
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Audio amplification
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Food service
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Chairs for the audience
The best way to handle these special considerations, particularly catering service, is to find a sponsor.
How to find a sponsor
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Make a list of climate tech companies in your area. Go to climatetechlist.com or climatebase.org and filter by location.
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Find connections on LinkedIn, ask for intros to get in the door. You can try messaging someone who works there on the Work on Climate Slack Community.
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Make your pitch in the company's interest by giving thanking them and allowing them to announce something before the panel starts.
Catering ideas can be something simple like bahn mi sandwichies (include vegetarian options).
How to find Experts
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It's a similar process to the sponsorship advice above
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Your experts could also get their organization to sponsor
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Consider diversity - your panel should have various backgrounds, perspectives, and not be entirely men.
STEP TWO: Create a Sharable Event
Use a tool such as Luma to craft a sharable event. Ensure the climate theme and any other goals or activities are clear.
STEP THREE: Share the Event!
Utilize various marketing channels such as social media platforms, email newsletters, and your personal network to spread the word. Encourage others to share the event.
In Seattle - we use the Work on Climate Slack and post in the #meet-seattle channel
STEP FOUR: Show Up
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Beforehand, gather any required materials. Common materials are markers and name tags.
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Arrive early on the event day to set up, address any last-minute concerns, and be ready to welcome attendees with organization and enthusiasm.
Take a big group photo!
STEP FIVE: Share the Results!
After the event, utilize social media to share the highlights with those who attended and those who missed out. Sharing the results not only celebrates the success of the event but also encourages future engagement and participation.