What would you give a TEDx talk about?
If you could give a specialized talk on any subject, what would it be on?
Technology, entertainment and design (TED), is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring change through short, powerful speeches. They look for charismatic, engaging speakers whose talks introduce new ideas, supported by solid evidence that appeal to a diverse international audience. People from all over the world can participate in the event. Getting accepted to do a TED talk is extremely difficult, but there’s a similar event called TEDx which are independently run in different locations and by different organizations, and your chances of being accepted are a lot higher. Here are five ways to turn your work expertise into a TEDx talk.
Choose a Specific Area
What is your area of expertise? If you are a scientist, there are many niches within the science vertical that you can focus on. Once you’ve decided on your niche, spend some time studying it because TEDx events are more than you standing on stage giving a speech, there’s a discussion afterwards, so the more you know, the more you’ll be able to participate in the conversation.
Write a TEDx Speech
TEDx speeches are very structured and you are not allowed to deliver an impromptu speech so you will need to do a lot of preparation in advance. Here are some tips:
Why: Before you start writing your speech, determine why you’re writing it. Your ‘why’ will keep you focused and motivated during the preparation phase.
How Long: TEDx speeches are eighteen minutes in length, but some experts advise that you make it ten minutes long because according to John Medina, the author of ‘Brain Rules’ people typically tune out at the ten minute mark.
Who: It’s important that you know who your target audience is so you can write a speech that caters to their needs. The language you use, and the stories you tell will depend on the audience you’re speaking to.
Sharpen Your Public Speaking Skills
Speaking in front of an audience is a skill, and like any skill, you can improve it. In the technologically-driven era that we are currently working in, it has become a lot more difficult to keep audiences engaged. By sharpening your public speaking skills before getting on stage you increase your chances of captivating your audience. Here are some tips on improving your public speaking skills:
Study Speakers: Great speakers such as Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, and Les Brown are all known for their powerful speaking abilities. You can read books about them, and watch their videos to gain insight into their gift.
Practice Body Language: Most people don’t like public speaking, and this can make them appear tense and awkward on stage. The most effective speakers maintain the right posture, move naturally, and make eye contact with their audience.
Practice Voice and Breath Control: Maintaining control of your breath and voice during a speech will ensure you don’t speak too fast during your presentation. A quick YouTube search will bring up teachings on breath and voice control.
Record Your Speeches: Recording your speeches will highlight your good and bad points so that you know which parts of your presentation you need to work on the most.
Practice Your Speech
The more you practice, the more confident you’ll be on the day of delivery. Some experts advise memorizing the speech word for word, some don’t, and suggest you only memorize your main talking points. How you choose to practice your speech is up to you, so make sure you practice frequently and you are completely memorized and off book.
Connect With TEDx Organizers
The Roman philosopher Seneca said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” It’s advised that you’re prepared before you start applying to become a TEDx speaker because you never know when the organizers will approve your application. By being prepared before the offers start coming in, you free yourself from the stress and pressure of getting ready within a short time-frame.
Turning your work expertise into a TEDx speech will take time, effort, and preparation. Being an expert in your field will get your foot in the door, but to kick it down, you’ll need to put the work in.
