How To Create And Deliver A Memorable TEDx Talk Presentation - [With Our Very Own Example]
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So, there are two types of TED talks: A TED talk and a TEDx talk. TED talks are delivered at the annual TED conference or TEDGlobal conference. TEDx are a series of independently organized conferences in which an organization obtains a free license from TED and agrees to follow certain principals.
Topics explore everything from science and business to education, arts and global issues.
It just so happens that one of our Head Geeks delivered an awesome TEDx Talk and wanted to share his experience with it.
So let’s dive in to this article!
Harnessing The Power Of Geek In The Classroom
Meet Ryan Radford, Director Of Operations here at Presentation Geeks and our very own TEDx presenter.
In his talk, Ryan discusses philosophies, strategies, and outcomes of building a community of computer geeks in the school which he teaches in. Take a look at the video below of Ryan delivering his great presentation:
How Do You Get The Opportunity To Do A Ted Talk?
There are several ways in which you can find yourself on the stage. If you want more information on that, you can check out TEDx programs to see which path may work best for you.
In Ryan’s case he received an invitation from the organizer of the TEDx LangleyED event who was interested in the innovate approach Ryan took teaching in the classroom and building community with his students. He was approached asking if he was interesting telling the story of his unique philosophy.
Why Should You Consider Doing A Ted Talk?
The reason is different for everyone. We believe in sharing our knowledge and building a community. The power a presentation can have on an audience, both in person and virtual cannot be underestimated.
However, here are just a few reasons you should consider giving a TEDx Talk.
Because You're Passionate About Something
Do you want to share your thoughts on a subject close to you? Do you have a unique perspective on a topic that you feel is worth sharing? You should do it.
In Ryan’s talk, he really wanted to show that his educational passions are deeply rooted in the development of student leadership and building community within his school.
To Inform And Educate
The best Ted talks come from those who are looking to inform and educate those who consume the content, be it in person or virtually.
As an educator himself, the purpose of Ryan’s talk was to provide an alternate solution to a traditional way of approaching the management of a classroom
Like Minded People Listen
It’s a great way to express your thoughts with those who have a vested interest in the subject matter. The advantage here is that you already have a receptive audience, so having it make in impact is a tad easier.
You just need to tailor the content to suit an audience you may already be familiar with.
Ted Talks Help Improve Your Presentation Skills
There’s no question that delivering a presentation on this sized stage provides benefits to the person presenting. Here are just a few benefits:
It may be the biggest presentation you’ve given.
Every chance you get to public speak is experience.
It’s an opportunity to learn. These presentations are captured on video so you can assess your performance.
You’ll get virtual feedback from the web.
What Ryan's Process Was When Developing His Ted Talk Presentation?
Of course, Ryan had a slight advantage being the co-founder of a presentation design company. Luckily for us, he shared his industry tips and secrets.
Started The Process With An Outline
Ryan’s started his process with an outline.
It’s important to build the framework to avoid your presentation going off the rails. Having a solid structure will help you stay on track, both in the storytelling and timing. It also acts as a guide that you can run through it yourself and feel confident that each slide is going to tell your story.
Next It Was On To The Visuals.
It’s a fact, the design of your presentation matters!
When a presenter has support from a well designed presentation it helps on multiple levels. First, it builds a level of trust with your audience. Presentations that are well crafted show a certain level of effort the presenter has put in. Audiences notice that.
Second, it can really help communicate a message more clearly. Storytelling is a critical part of engaging an audience and having a lasting impact on them.
Then it was time to develop the script.
As you’ve probably seen, the talk lasted 18 minutes! In order to create a script that was able to highlight key concepts and ideas and then be paired down to fit into a presentation design, without losing your point is no easy task.
In order to achieve this it’s important you understand your audience. You will notice in the video that throughout the presentation Ryan talks from personal experience, he uses words and examples the audience are able to resonate with.
Do You Have Any Ted Talk Techniques For Delivering a TEDx Talk Presentation?
In preparing and delivering his TEDx presentation, Ryan talked about employing several strategic tips and techniques that worked for him. Recognizing the power of humor in captivating an audience, he tried ti strategically integrate several witty anecdotes and relatable jokes (like the Zach Morris from “Saved By the Bell” reference) to create a lighthearted atmosphere. Understanding the significance of pauses, he also tried to allow for moments for the audience to really think contemplate on what was being said. To manage nerves and establish a personal connection, he focused my gaze on the immediate front row, as opposed to the entire auditorium), making eye contact with just 2 or three individuals to foster a sense of intimacy. This intentional engagement not only calmed his nerves but also created a more personalized and impactful experience for both him and the audience. He also said that meticulous preparation including practicing his dlelivery and timing over and over again until it became second nature was key.
We Asked Ryan "Was It Worth It? Would You Do It Again?"
When asked to give his personal take on the whole experience, here’s what Ryan had to say:
“Absolutely. It was a great experience presenting my approach to teaching. I enjoyed meeting fellow presenters and engaging with people who attended the event. Interestingly, the legacy lasts to this day. I still get people watch the video and send me a message with their questions or thoughts on the subject.”
We think it’s fair to assume that he would do it again if the opportunity presented itself.
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