How to Craft a Talk That Gets On A Global Stage

“How do I get on a TEDx stage?”

This is a question I get asked almost every day from my amazing community.

It’s a fair question given my background and experience, so I thought I would share the answer with everyone, so more of you can get started on your path to a global stage!

Here are the 3 steps to getting you started on your journey…

Step 1: Craft a Unique and Impactful Idea that Sparks Curiosity

Have you ever wondered what makes a TEDx talk so captivating?

Well, it’s all about having a fresh, unique idea that sparks curiosity and inspires others. But simply having an idea isn’t enough – you also need to establish credibility with your audience. By sharing your personal or professional experience, you build trust and bring your idea to life.

Yes, and… your idea which really is a strong thesis statement – is the one sentence that will be the foundation of your talk and ensure your message is clear and impactful.

Ask yourself:  Is your idea worth sharing? This is the beginning of a TEDx Talk that people will remember.

Step 2: Master the Art of Storytelling to Engage and Inspire

Once you have an idea, you need to wrap that idea in a story.

The story acts as a Trojan horse – an effective speaker is able to embed an idea inside a story that is compelling and interesting…and before you know it, the idea sneaks in.

This is why stories are so important – they do more than entertain and inspire, they also carry the critical message we want to convey.

People love to hear stories and a well-structured narrative is compelling, engaging and easily shared. A story of human struggle and eventual triumph is something people relate to and creating tension in your narrative while empathizing with the pain and pleasure of your characters will motivate, persuade and make your story memorable.

Ask yourself: Does your narrative make an impact with your audience and make your message unforgettable?

Step 3: Spark Conversation and Create Lasting Impact with Your TEDx Talk

Ideas and stories are of course important – but what makes for a *great* TEDx talk is, once it’s finished, it isn’t really over.

The most critical part of any great TEDx talk is that it sparks conversation and allows for the idea to plant seeds and sprout roots to grow.

We may come away from a TEDx talk a little bit changed by a spark of a thought – perhaps we leave more informed, inspired, or curious. But it takes a conversation to make that spark become real – for it to transform into learning, inspiration, or action.

The value of a TEDx talk lies in the exchange and shared understanding between people brought together by the talk. It’s creating intelligent conversations and building a new community of understanding that creates change, this is what inspires us every day at Talk Boutique.

Ask yourself: Do your ideas make a lasting impact with your audience? Is your current community supportive, engaged, and actively championing your message?

The world is waiting for your big ideas, and I hope these tips will help you bring them to life.

The TEDx stage is a platform for diverse voices and experiences, representing the many perspectives that shape our world. Your unique insights and fresh perspectives have the power to challenge traditional thinking and inspire innovation.

Deep down, you know your ideas can make a difference, and it’s time to step up and share them with the world. TEDx offers a powerful opportunity to spark meaningful conversations and connect with others who share your passion.

So don’t hold back – let your voice be heard and make an impact today!