A fireside chat format is an informal take on the more formal keynote address. It is an informal discussion between speakers and interviewers that usually takes place in front of an audience. This conversational interview is a great way to involve and engage the audience in the discussion.

In a fireside chat format, the interviewer asks the speaker questions that the audience wants the answer to and gives them a chance to join in the conversation. It takes a Q&A format with the interviewer asking leading questions that the speaker responds to in a relaxed manner. A fireside chat format is a great way to liven up any event.

How to host a great fireside chat

• Have a well-detailed structure for your fireside chat with a step by step outline for asking questions.
• Ask thought-provoking and open-ended questions that give a lot of room for an interesting answer. Don’t ask yes or no questions because they can make the conversation rigid.
• Don’t exclude the audience from the interview.
• Invite interesting speakers who are comfortable enough to be open during the chat.