Becoming TED Worthy

When I’m traveling, I watch TED talks on every flight. These videos are inspirational, informative, and always provide an excellent example of great public speaking. Becoming a TED-worthy speaker is a lofty goal, and one we believe every speaker should strive toward. Being TED worthy is a great way to push yourself toward the best speaking you’ll ever achieve.

Giving a TED talk can make you visible to hundreds of thousands of people and establish you as a leader in your chosen field. It’s not an easy task, but it is one worth pursuing. Here are our tips to becoming a TED-worthy speaker:

Watch and learn. Watch as many existing TED Talks as you can, and pay attention to what common factors all of the speakers have. They are dynamic and passionate, truly committed to their topic. All of them use storytelling to bring the subject matter to life in new and captivating ways.

Start local. TEDx opportunities are available in every city, and they are often the foot-in-the-door opportunity you need to become a featured TED speaker. In keeping with the TED mission to spread worthy ideas, TEDx “supports independent organizers who want to create a TED-like event in their own community.” For example, you can find a TEDx event near you on the TED directory.

Have something worth saying. TED and TEDx talks are not about promoting your business or selling anything. They’re about ideas and thoughts designed to inspire the world. It’s really not about you; you’re simply delivering your idea. Humility is so crucial. Even if your idea is something you’ve been sharing for some time, make sure your presentation and speech are new and fresh.

Have passion, energy, and desire. Possibly the most important ingredient common in all TED speakers is the passion and energy they have for the idea they are sharing. Is there a personal benefit to becoming a TED speaker? Of course! But TED certainly tries to filter through the white noise and discover true thought leaders, often catapulting relative unknowns into that status.

Is your idea worth spreading? At the end of the day, your idea must be worth sharing. Dig deep and discover whatever excites you about making the world a better place, and you’ll likely discover your path to TED.

Don’t worry about nerves or polishing your speaking and presentation skills. We’re here to help you wow on stage. Just develop the idea you have that is worth sharing and we’ll help you prepare.

Franchetti Communications delivers accelerated results by designing power-packed media interview and presentation training sessions around your unique goals, in person and via teleconference. Franchetti Communications works with corporations and business leaders to develop communication strategy, messaging, and PR strategy. Follow Franchetti Communications on LinkedIn, and be sure to download our special report: 6 Ways to Guarantee Your Message Cuts Through the Clutter.