Lessons from a TEDx talk and presenting with impact
“Ideas Worth Sharing” is the theme of the TEDx project. Every speaker is required to present an idea that will be interesting, impactful, and/or useful to the audience. Attending a TEDx program should help each audience member to think something new.
I hope others are finding my TEDx talk full of “Ideas Worth Sharing.” But I was amazed to find that the experience was truly mind-blowing for me, as well. As a speaker at TEDxOcala in November, I found that the program has at least as much impact on the speakers as it does on the audience. Here are some of the new ideas I learned:
Bring levity
As I crafted my TEDx talk, I figured out how to illustrate one of my main points with a brief, funny skit. It was a big hit and helped the audience to remember an important idea. I’ll be doing more of that in future speeches.
Take risks
Don’t tell anyone else, but my biggest fear was that I had to memorize my entire 13-minute talk. No teleprompter, no note cards—just lots and lots of prep. I pictured myself on stage blanking out, and I gave my husband my script so he could stand up and shout out my next line if necessary. I did fine, and I felt a real sense of triumph just for making it through.
Weigh feedback thoughtfully
TEDxOcala provided each speaker with a coach. My coach, Barbara Fitos, was herself a previous TEDx speaker. Her feedback was great. She helped me edit my speech, carving out less effective material and emphasizing the most significant points. Several other self-appointed advisors also offered opinions as they watched me rehearse. Some of their feedback was useful, but some of it didn’t work for me at all. Everyone was trying to be helpful, but I needed to trust my own judgment about what would make my speech as powerful as possible.
Everyone can get stage fright
I am one of those lucky people who enjoy the spotlight. I’ve had fun acting, dancing, singing, and speaking in front of many audiences, large and small. To my utter shock, when I walked on stage to start my speech, my knees were shaking so hard I was afraid I would stumble. I was grateful to be wearing wide-legged pants so my trembling didn’t show. Once I started speaking, I was fine, but those few moments were quite unnerving.
I’m so grateful I had the chance to give a TEDx speech. If you’d like to talk more about presenting with impact, contact me at ggolden@gailgoldenconsulting.com.
