TEDx Talking: Erin Loman Jeck On What You Need To Know To Secure, Prepare, and Deliver a Highly…

TEDx Talking: Erin Loman Jeck On What You Need To Know To Secure, Prepare, and Deliver a Highly Effective TEDx Talk

Prioritize Changes: Not all feedback will be equally useful, and some might even be contradictory. Prioritize changes based on what aligns best with your goals for the talk and the points that were most frequently raised by your feedback providers.

In a world that is more connected than ever, the power of a well-crafted message to inspire, educate, and evoke change cannot be understated. TEDx Talks have emerged as a prestigious platform for sharing ideas worth spreading, reaching a global audience and creating impact on a grand scale. In this series, we are discussing the process of delivering a TEDx Talk that resonates and leaves a lasting impression. We are talking with experts who have successfully navigated the TEDx journey, including TEDx speakers, speaking coaches with a focus on TEDx preparations, and organizers involved in the selection and coaching of speakers. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Erin Loman Jeck.

Erin’s story begins in the quiet, rugged landscape of North Idaho, a region marked by its close-knit community and breathtaking natural beauty. Growing up in a town with a population barely exceeding 3,000, Erin’s early years were defined by the stark realities of life and the strength required to navigate them.

At the age of ten, Erin faced a profound loss that would shape her future resilience: the death of her father in a car accident. This tragedy left her mother to raise Erin and her two younger sisters alone. The family’s hardship deepened when Erin’s mother was diagnosed with malignant melanoma when Erin was just fifteen. Given only 18 months to live, Erin’s mother required extensive care, pushing Erin into an adult role far earlier than most of her peers. She began working to support her family, balancing school, work, and caregiving responsibilities with remarkable determination.

Despite the tumult of her upbringing, Erin harbored a dream that transcended her immediate circumstances: becoming a dolphin trainer. This aspiration led her from the mountainous confines of Idaho to the sunny shores of the Florida Keys, where she secured an internship at the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, Florida. It was here, amidst the playful dolphins and warm ocean breezes, that Erin discovered a new passion — human psychology. This revelation redirected her career path and set the stage for her future endeavors.

Erin’s academic journey through psychology, from undergraduate studies to a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, was driven by a deep curiosity about human behavior and the power of interpersonal connections. However, the traditional therapy setting, with its often slow and non-linear progress, did not align with Erin’s results-driven nature. She sought a more immediate and impactful way to help others, leading her to pivot towards a new career as a business coach for speakers.

In 2013, Erin launched into the entrepreneurial world, focusing on coaching speakers to harness the power of their message to resonate with and convert audiences. She immersed herself in learning from the world’s top speaking coaches, mastering the art of stage presence, vocal tonality, and storytelling. Her mission was to ignite change and transform passive listeners into engaged, action-taking clients. This pursuit has seen Erin coach thousands across corporate stages and TEDx events, earning her the title of the “queen of stage conversions.”

Erin’s work is a unique blend of psychology and public speaking. She uses her understanding of the human mind to help speakers connect deeply with their audiences, ensuring their messages are not only heard but felt and remembered. This approach has made her a highly sought-after business coach, particularly among purpose-driven entrepreneurs looking to monetize their message, make an impact, and inspire action.

A significant part of Erin’s professional journey has been her extensive involvement with TEDx talks. She has been hired by ten different TEDx event producers to coach their speakers, guiding them to develop compelling presentations that adhere to TEDx standards. Additionally, over 200 individuals have independently sought her expertise to prepare for their TEDx talks. Erin has also trained other speaking coaches and served on the screening committees for four TEDx events, evaluating around 800 applications annually.

Erin’s dedication to TEDx coaching highlights her commitment to the power of ideas worth spreading. She has seen firsthand the transformative effect that a well-delivered TEDx talk can have on a speaker’s career and personal growth. Her clients often experience significant career advancements, increased visibility, and new speaking opportunities. For instance, one of her clients secured a consulting fee exceeding $150,000 from an audience member moved by their TEDx talk. Many others have received over 150 invitations for additional speaking engagements following their TEDx presentations.

Erin believes that investing in a TEDx talk is immensely worthwhile. The preparation process itself is valuable, challenging speakers to refine their ideas and enhance their communication skills. The exposure from a TEDx talk can significantly boost a speaker’s profile, with some talks garnering tens of thousands of views online. This visibility helps build credibility and authority, extending the impact of their message far beyond the stage.

Today, Erin continues to lead in the field of public speaking and coaching. She operates the Transformational Speakers Agency, hosts workshops, online courses, and the Transformational Speakers Summit. Her work is centered on helping speakers clarify their messages, reach their ideal audiences, and achieve their big business goals. Clients praise Erin for her visionary approach, her ability to see the big picture, and her knack for breaking it down into actionable steps.

Erin is also a devoted mother and wife. She and her husband, Trey Jeck, have been married for over 11 years and are parents to two children, Dylon, 10, and Sophia, 2. Dylon is a young entrepreneur who donates his earnings to charitable causes, embodying the spirit of compassion and community that Erin values deeply.

Erin Loman Jeck’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful impact. Her life and career illustrate that our circumstances do not define us; rather, it is our response to them that shapes our destiny. Through her work, Erin continues to inspire and empower others to transform their lives and the world around them, one speech at a time.

Thank you so much for your time! I know that you are a very busy person. Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us your “Origin Story”? Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

In the sprawling, wild heart of North Idaho, where the population scarcely tipped over 3,000, my story took root in the most humble of beginnings. This is not a tale of extraordinary circumstance or unparalleled genius; rather, it’s a narrative steeped in resilience, adaptation, and the sheer force of will to make an impactful difference in the world. Picture this: a small town, where everyone knows your name, and the mountains stand as silent, steadfast companions to the trials and tribulations of its inhabitants.

Tragedy struck early. At the tender age of 10, the fabric of my family was irrevocably torn apart when my father was taken from us in a devastating car accident. The world as I knew it was shattered, leaving behind a single mother to brave the storm with three girls, all under the age of 10, in tow. Our lives, already a tapestry of love and loss, were further complicated when, at 15, I was thrust into an adult role far before my time. My mother, diagnosed with a malignant melanoma and given just 18 months to live, required not just a daughter, but a partner in the grueling dance of life and death. It was during this period that I took my first tentative steps into the workforce, aiming to alleviate any additional burdens from my mother’s weary shoulders.

Amidst the chaos of my upbringing, a dream flickered to life within me: to become a dolphin trainer. This dream propelled me from the familiar embrace of Idaho to the sun-soaked shores of the Florida Keys in my 20s, where I eagerly embarked on an internship at the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, FL. It was there, amidst the chittering of dolphins and the salt-laced breeze, that a pivotal revelation struck: my true calling was not in marine biology, but in the rich, complex tapestry of human psychology.

My journey through the realms of psychology, from undergraduate to a master’s program in marriage and family therapy, was driven by an insatiable curiosity about people, their stories, and the transformative power of understanding and connection. Yet, the confines of a therapy room, the repetitive cycle of complaints and stagnation, chafed against my results-driven spirit. It was clear: my path lay elsewhere.

In 2013, with the seeds of ambition sown and a vision crystalizing, I launched into the entrepreneurial world as a business coach for speakers. Immersing myself in the wisdom of the world’s top speaking coaches, I mastered the art of stage presence, vocal tonality, and storytelling. My mission was to ignite change, to morph passive listeners into engaged, action-taking clients. This quest has led me to coach thousands across the corporate and TEDx stages, and within the speaking and coaching realms, earning me the title of the queen of stage conversions.

Now, my work is a fusion of psychology and speaking, a testament to the power of understanding the human mind and harnessing this knowledge to inspire, influence, and impact. My origin, marked by adversity, has shaped a journey of discovery and transformation. It’s a story that underlines a profound truth: it’s not our circumstances that define us, but our response to them. And in this response lies the potential to reshape not just our own lives, but the lives of others, one speech, one connection, one inspired action at a time.

Navigating the vibrant and intellectual landscape of TEDx talks has been an exhilarating journey, one that has afforded me a unique perspective both behind the scenes and on the stage. My involvement with TEDx speaks to a deep commitment not just to the art of speaking, but to the power of ideas worth spreading.

As a member of the screening committee for TEDx events, I’ve been privileged to witness the germination of ideas at their most nascent stage, evaluating potential speakers not just for the content of their message but for the passion, clarity, and impact with which they can deliver it. This role requires a keen eye for potential — a sixth sense for detecting which ideas have the power to resonate deeply with audiences and create ripples of change.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work has been coaching TEDx speakers. Unlike traditional public speaking coaching, TEDx coaching is a journey into the heart of what makes ideas compelling and transformative. It’s about honing a speaker’s ability to connect deeply with their audience, ensuring their message isn’t just heard but felt and remembered. This process involves meticulous work on storytelling, stage presence, and the subtle nuances of voice modulation and body language that turn a presentation into an experience.

My distinction as one of the few paid TEDx speaking coaches highlights the value and expertise I bring to the table. This unique position underscores not only the demand for specialized coaching in the TEDx space but also the trust and confidence that speakers place in my ability to guide them. It’s a role that demands not just an understanding of what makes a TEDx talk successful but an ongoing study of the evolving landscape of public speaking, audience engagement, and idea dissemination.

Working with TEDx speakers, I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that occurs when individuals are equipped not just with the tools but with the confidence to share their ideas with the world. It’s about bridging the gap between a powerful idea and a powerful delivery, ensuring that the message not only reaches but resonates with a global audience.

In summary, my experience with TEDx talks is a testament to my belief in the transformative power of speech. It’s a role that combines the analytical with the creative, challenging me to constantly push the boundaries of what is possible in public speaking. Whether it’s through screening potential speakers or coaching them to bring their ideas to life on the TEDx stage, my goal has always been to amplify voices that inspire change, challenge perspectives, and contribute to the global dialogue in a meaningful way.

Can you tell us a bit about what you do professionally, and what brought you to this specific career path?

I operate at the intersection of psychology and public speaking, coaching speakers to harness the power of their message to truly resonate and convert audiences. My journey to this career was fueled by a desire to merge my academic background in psychology with a practical application that aligned with my results-driven nature.

After completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I was captivated by the complexity of human interactions and the transformative power of understanding interpersonal dynamics. This fascination led me to pursue a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. During this period, I also engaged in a unique experience that bridged my love for psychology with my earlier dream of working with dolphins, training them at a research center in Florida. This experience was enlightening — it showed me how behavioral principles could be applied to facilitate real-world outcomes, enhancing both human and animal welfare.

However, as I delved deeper into the world of therapy, I encountered a recurring theme that didn’t quite sit right with me: many individuals seemed to dwell on their issues without actively seeking solutions. This realization struck a chord with my results-oriented approach. I thrived on seeing tangible progress and changes, not just discussions about potential improvements. It became clear that the traditional path of therapy, where change can be slow and non-linear, was not the optimal fit for my drive for immediate and impactful results.

Driven by this insight, I decided to pivot my career towards a domain where I could instigate real change and where the participants were as eager for transformation as I was — the world of public speaking and business coaching. I founded a business focused on empowering speakers to not only craft compelling messages but also to deliver them in ways that drive action and foster change. This approach allowed me to utilize my background in psychology to analyze and understand audience dynamics, enhancing speaker-audience connections and ensuring that each presentation was not just heard but felt and responded to.

In this role, I specialize in helping speakers perfect their stage presence, refine their storytelling, and master the nuances of vocal tonality, all geared towards maximizing audience engagement and conversion. My clients are individuals and organizations who are not just looking to speak but to inspire, influence, and instigate meaningful change. This aligns perfectly with my drive for results, as I work with people who are proactive about their growth and impact, rather than those merely discussing their challenges.

This career path has been a fulfilling synthesis of my educational background, my personal inclinations, and my professional aspirations, allowing me to leverage my expertise in psychology in a dynamic and impactful way. By guiding others to effectively convey their messages and achieve their goals, I not only fulfill my professional objectives but also contribute to a broader narrative of change and empowerment.

Can you tell us a bit about your particular experience with TEDx talks?

My experience with TEDx talks has been extensive and deeply rewarding, spanning several roles that have allowed me to impact the TEDx community significantly. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate closely with TEDx organizers and contribute to various stages of the event planning and execution process.

I’ve been hired by ten different TEDx event producers to coach all the speakers for their events. Typically, these events have between 10 to 17 speakers, each requiring tailored coaching to refine their messages, hone their delivery, and ensure their talks not only inspire but also adhere to the TEDx standards of engaging and thought-provoking content. This role involves a meticulous process of helping each speaker develop their unique story and effectively communicate their ideas within the constraints of time and the TEDx format.

In addition to working directly with event organizers, over 200 individuals have sought my expertise independently to prepare for their TEDx presentations. These speakers come from diverse backgrounds, each with a unique perspective and a compelling story to tell. My role with these clients involves deep-diving into the content, helping them structure their talks for maximum impact, and ensuring their delivery is both confident and captivating.

My involvement with TEDx extends beyond coaching individual speakers. I have also been brought in by three organizations to train their speaking coaches. This role is particularly fulfilling as it amplifies my impact, allowing me to share my insights and strategies with other coaches who will, in turn, elevate the quality of coaching for future TEDx speakers.

Furthermore, I’ve served on the screening committees for four different TEDx events, a role that involves reviewing and selecting speakers from a pool of approximately 800 applications each year. This responsibility requires a keen eye for potential and a deep understanding of what makes a TEDx talk resonate with global audiences. It’s about finding those gems — speakers whose ideas have the power to change perspectives and stimulate conversations on a global scale.

Each of these roles has enriched my understanding of the TEDx format and allowed me to contribute significantly to the ecosystem of ideas worth spreading. It’s a platform that not only challenges speakers to be their best but also challenges me as a coach to bring out the most impactful and inspiring aspects of each individual’s presentation. Through my TEDx coaching, I strive to ensure that every speaker not only meets the high standards expected at TEDx events but also leaves a lasting impact on their audience.

From your personal experience, why is it worth it to invest all that to do a TEDx talk?

Investing in a TEDx talk is immensely worthwhile for a variety of reasons, and my personal experience coaching TEDx speakers underscores the profound benefits that can emerge from this unique platform. TEDx talks offer an extraordinary opportunity for speakers to amplify their message on a global stage and catalyze their professional and personal growth.

One of the most tangible outcomes is the potential for significant career opportunities directly stemming from a single talk. For instance, some of my clients have experienced immediate and substantial returns on their investment; one notable example includes a speaker who secured a consulting fee exceeding $150,000 from an audience member who was compelled by their presentation. This kind of direct financial gain is a testament to the power of effectively conveying a compelling idea that resonates deeply with listeners.

Additionally, the exposure gained from a TEDx talk often leads to further speaking engagements. Many of my clients have received over 150 talk invites following their TEDx appearances. These invitations not only extend the reach of their original message but also open doors to new professional networks and audiences. This expanded visibility can transform a speaker’s career, providing them with numerous platforms to influence and inspire.

From a visibility standpoint, TEDx talks can significantly enhance a speaker’s profile. Most of my speakers garner an average of over 45,000 views on their talks, with some reaching up to 130,000 views. These numbers reflect not just momentary attention but a sustained interest that can lead to ongoing engagement and influence. The digital footprint of a TEDx talk also aids in building a speaker’s credibility and authority in their field, as these talks are often referenced in professional contexts and can serve as a powerful component of one’s digital identity and personal brand.

Furthermore, the process of preparing for a TEDx talk itself is incredibly valuable. It challenges speakers to refine their ideas and presentation skills to their essence, supported by rigorous coaching and rehearsal. This preparation not only ensures a polished and impactful presentation but also enhances the speaker’s overall communication skills in a way that resonates across all their professional endeavors.

Overall, the investment in delivering a TEDx talk can yield extraordinary returns, not just in terms of immediate opportunities and visibility, but also in long-term personal and professional development. It’s an opportunity to share a message that matters with a global audience, positioning the speaker as a thought leader and catalyzing future opportunities that extend well beyond the stage.

Can you describe the application process for becoming a TEDx speaker? What are some common challenges faced in the application process that our readers should be forewarned about?

Becoming a TEDx speaker is an exciting opportunity, but it also involves a selective and meticulous application process designed to identify individuals who can offer unique, insightful, and thought-provoking perspectives. Here’s a detailed overview of the application process and some common challenges to watch out for:

Application Process for TEDx Speakers

Find a TEDx Event: The first step is to identify which TEDx events you are interested in and are accepting applications. Each event is independently organized, so details and timelines can vary widely.

Review the Theme and Guidelines: Each TEDx event has a specific theme or focus. Applicants need to ensure their topic fits within this theme and adheres to the TEDx guidelines, which emphasize original, idea-focused content that is free of commercial and religious agendas, and not oriented around political topics.

Submit an application: Most TEDx events require potential speakers to fill out an application form. This typically includes personal information, a description of the idea you wish to share, and how it relates to the theme of the event. You may also need to submit a short video pitch explaining your idea.

Interviews and Selection: If your application piques the interest of the organizers, you may be invited for an interview to further discuss your idea and how you plan to present it. This stage is crucial for assessing your communication skills and your passion for the topic.

Common Challenges in the Application Process

Mistaking the platform for a speaking opportunity: One of the most common mistakes is approaching TEDx as a platform to showcase speaking skills. TEDx organizers are looking for individuals who are experts on a particular topic who can offer profound insights and groundbreaking ideas, not just professional speakers.
Not tailoring the application to the event’s theme: Applicants often overlook the importance of aligning their topic with the event’s specific theme. Proposals that fail to demonstrate relevance to the theme are likely to be disregarded.
Not following application instructions: This is a critical error that can lead to immediate disqualification. Failing to adhere to the application guidelines or submit the requested materials shows a lack of attention to detail and suggests that an applicant may not be coachable or adaptable to the TEDx format.
Over-promoting oneself rather than the idea: TEDx is about ideas worth spreading, not self-promotion. Focusing too much on personal achievements rather than how your idea can impact or benefit others is a misstep.
Under-prepared video submissions: Many applicants underestimate the importance of the video component of the application. A poorly executed video that fails to clearly articulate a compelling idea can weaken your application.

Tips for Success

Focus on uniqueness and depth of the idea: Your application should clearly communicate a unique and compelling idea that adds a new dimension to the conversation within the event’s theme.
Be clear and concise: Clarity of thought and brevity in communication are vital. Your application should succinctly articulate why your idea matters and how it can impact the audience or the broader community.
Show passion and authenticity: Your genuine enthusiasm for the topic should shine through in every aspect of your application. This authenticity is often what resonates most with event organizers.
Approaching the TEDx application process with a clear understanding of these challenges and focusing on presenting a unique, well-articulated idea can significantly enhance your chances of being selected to share your thoughts on this prestigious platform.

Is there a website where you can apply for a TEDx talk? How do you apply and submit? How can you find out about all of the TEDx’s that are available?

To apply for a TEDx talk, you can begin by visiting the official TED website, specifically the page that lists all the TEDx events globally. This page will provide you with information about each event, including their themes, locations, dates, and whether they are currently accepting speaker applications.

Here’s how you can navigate the process:

Visit the TEDx Events Page: Go to TEDx Events on the TED website. This page lists all upcoming TEDx events around the world.
Search for Events: You can use the search function to find events by location, date, or theme. This makes it easier to identify events that align with your expertise and interests.
Review Event Details: Each event page provides detailed information about the event, including the theme, the organizers’ contact information, and specifics about the application process if they are accepting applications.
Prepare Your Application: Once you find an event that aligns with your topic and interests, prepare your application according to the specific requirements listed by the organizers. This typically includes a detailed description of your idea, how it fits with the event’s theme, and any other materials the organizers might request, such as a video pitch.
Submit Your Application: Follow the instructions on how to submit your application. This usually involves filling out an online form or contacting the organizers directly through the contact information provided.
Wait for a Response: After submission, if your application catches the interest of the organizers, they may contact you for further discussion or an interview. This is part of the selection process to finalize speakers for the event.

By using the TEDx Events page, you can stay updated on all available TEDx opportunities and tailor your applications to events that best fit your expertise and speaking goals. Here is the direct link to start exploring and applying for TEDx events: TEDx Events.

What strategies did you use or would you recommend to ensure that a talk is engaging and impactful?

Creating an engaging and impactful talk involves a combination of strategic storytelling, effective vocal techniques, and genuine connection with the audience. Here are some strategies I recommend, based on my extensive experience coaching speakers:

Storytelling Techniques

1. Connect Through Personal Stories: Humanizing your talk by sharing personal experiences or anecdotes makes it relatable and memorable. Personal stories can evoke emotions and create a bond between the speaker and the audience. This connection is crucial as it allows the audience to see parts of themselves in your journey, enhancing the impact of the message.

2. Structure for Impact: Organize your talk to build momentum and keep the audience engaged. A common and effective structure is the classic narrative arc: establish a context, introduce a conflict or challenge, and conclude with a resolution. This structure guides the audience through a journey that can inspire and motivate them.

3. Use Universal Themes: Base your stories on themes that resonate universally, such as overcoming adversity, pursuing passion, or personal growth. These themes speak to the human condition, making your talk more accessible and allowing the audience to connect deeply with your message.

Vocal Tonality Techniques- creating a Melodic Voice that is memorable

1. Vary Your Pitch: Modulating your pitch helps in maintaining the audience’s interest and conveying emotions effectively. A higher pitch can indicate excitement or intensity, while a lower pitch can convey seriousness or authority.

2. Adjust Your Pace: Changing the speed at which you speak can emphasize important points or create a dynamic rhythm. Slowing down can draw attention to a key part of your story, while speeding up can convey urgency or excitement.

3. Monitor Your Tone: The tone of your voice should match the emotion or message you want to convey. A warm, friendly tone can make the audience feel comfortable and engaged, whereas a serious tone can underscore the importance of your message.

4. Control Volume for Emphasis: Use volume strategically to emphasize key points or to create contrast. A sudden drop in volume can pull the audience in, prompting them to pay closer attention, while a louder voice can project confidence and command attention.

Engagement Strategies

1. Engage with Questions: Posing rhetorical or direct questions to the audience can foster engagement and make them think critically about the topic. It also breaks the monotony of a one-way dialogue.

2. Use Pauses Effectively: Strategic pauses allow your points to resonate and give the audience time to absorb the information. Pauses can also be used to generate suspense or emphasize a crucial part of your talk.

3. Involve the Audience: Depending on the format and setting, consider involving the audience through interactive elements like quick polls, show of hands, or inviting audience reflections. This involvement can make the experience more memorable and interactive.

How does a person boil down an idea into five minutes?

Condensing a complex idea into a succinct five-minute presentation is a challenging but critical skill, especially in contexts like TEDx talks where brevity is key. One effective visualization technique I recommend involves imagining a scenario that heightens the urgency and importance of your message, helping you distill it to its essence. Here’s how you can apply this technique:

Visualization Technique for Condensing Your Talk

Imagine the Scenario: Visualize yourself walking onto a stage with with the topic you wish to present. You know you have only five minutes to deliver this talk, and after these five minutes, you will never have another chance to share your message with the world.

Understand the Stakes: In this visualization, imagine that this is your last opportunity to leave a legacy, to impart a message that you deeply care about. What would you choose to say? This scenario forces you to prioritize the essence of your message.

Cut Down the Nonsense: With the realization that every second counts, unnecessary details, tangents, and filler words naturally fall away. What remains are the core elements of your idea that are truly impactful.

Focus on What Matters Most: Ask yourself what the single most important takeaway you want your audience to remember is. This becomes the centerpiece of your talk.

Organize Your Thoughts: Structure your talk around this central idea. Begin with a strong opening that captures the essence of your message, support it with one or two key points or stories that reinforce this idea, and conclude with a powerful call to action or a thought-provoking ending that ties back to your main message.

How do they choose which of all their ideas should be the one?

Choosing the right idea for a TEDx talk can indeed be a daunting task, especially when you have multiple concepts that you feel passionate about. The visualization technique I described earlier is a powerful tool not just for condensing your talk, but also for pinpointing the idea that is truly worth sharing on such a prestigious platform.

Using the Visualization to Choose Your Idea

Revisit the Scenario: Imagine again that you are walking onto a stage with the full knowledge that this is your final chance to impact the world with your words. You have just five minutes to leave a legacy that encapsulates your values, insights, and messages.

Evaluate Each Idea: Apply this scenario to each of your potential ideas. Which idea feels most urgent and meaningful? Which message do you feel is truly essential for others to hear from you, something so important that you would choose it as your last words to the world?

Assess the Impact: Think about the impact of each idea. Which one has the potential to inspire, provoke thought, or drive change? The idea that not only resonates with you most deeply but also has the potential to affect others significantly is typically the one that should be shared.

Look for Universality and Novelty: Consider whether the idea can connect with a broad audience while offering something new or a unique perspective. TEDx audiences appreciate ideas that challenge conventional thinking and introduce new ways of understanding or approaching problems.

Test Your Idea: You can also informally test your idea by discussing it with peers or mentors. Their reactions can provide insight into the clarity and appeal of your concept. A strong idea will spark curiosity and interest, even in its raw form. By using this visualization as a litmus test, you can more confidently decide which idea is not only the most important for you to share but also the most likely to engage and benefit the audience. This method ensures that the idea you choose to develop into a TEDx talk is not just another topic, but a profound message that you believe is worth being your ultimate contribution to the world’s dialogue.

Seeking out and incorporating feedback is a critical part of preparing for any talk, especially one as significant as a TEDx presentation. Here’s how to effectively gather and utilize feedback to refine your talk:

Identifying Feedback Sources

Choose Trusted Individuals: Select a group of trusted colleagues, mentors, or professional coaches who understand your goals and are familiar with the TEDx format. These individuals should be capable of providing constructive, honest critiques that can help you enhance your presentation.

Diverse Perspectives: Include people from different backgrounds in your feedback circle. This diversity can provide a range of insights and help you gauge how your message might resonate with a broader audience.

Hire a coach: Hiring a professional to give you feedback on stage presence, vocal tonality, and the script itself, clients hire me to get all of this along the way to the stage, from idea to standing ovation and beyond.

Gathering Feedback

Initial Presentation: Present your initial draft of the talk to your selected group. This can be done in a face-to-face meeting or digitally through video conferencing. Record this session; the recording will be useful for self-review later.

Structured Feedback: Ask for specific feedback on key elements of your talk such as the clarity of your message, the strength of your opening and conclusion, the effectiveness of your visuals, and your delivery style. It can be helpful to provide a feedback form that guides reviewers to focus on particular aspects of your presentation.

Open-Ended Questions: Encourage open-ended feedback by asking questions like, “What is the main message you took away from my talk?” or “Which parts did you find most engaging or least clear?”

Incorporating Feedback

Review and Reflect: Carefully review all the feedback and watch your performance if recorded. Look for common themes or consistent points of confusion or engagement.

Prioritize Changes: Not all feedback will be equally useful, and some might even be contradictory. Prioritize changes based on what aligns best with your goals for the talk and the points that were most frequently raised by your feedback providers.

Iterate: Update your presentation based on this prioritized feedback. Make adjustments to both content and delivery as needed.

Repeat: After revising your talk, present the new version to part of your original group or to new individuals for fresh perspectives. This iterative process helps refine your talk into its most effective form.

How do you manage the stage fright before the talk?

Managing stage fright before a talk is a common challenge for many speakers, regardless of their experience level. One effective way to handle this anxiety is by reframing your nervous energy as excitement. This reframing technique leverages the similarity in physiological responses between anxiety and excitement — both states release similar neurochemicals such as adrenaline. By reinterpreting these sensations, you can shift your mindset from a state of fear to one of anticipation and enthusiasm.

Reframing Anxiety as Excitement

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that feeling nervous is a normal response to a high-stakes situation. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment.

Reframe the Narrative: Instead of thinking, “I am nervous,” reframe it to, “I am excited.” This subtle shift in language can change how your brain interprets your physiological state. By viewing your rapid heartbeat and quickened breath as signs of excitement, you help your brain step out of the fight-or-flight response and into a more empowered state.

Visualize Success: Spend a few moments visualizing a successful presentation. Imagine the audience responding positively, and picture yourself delivering your talk with confidence. This visualization can reinforce the reframing by aligning your emotional state with a positive outcome.

Breathing Technique to Override Nervousness

Another powerful tool to manage stage fright is a specific breathing technique that helps regulate your nervous system. This technique involves a pattern of breathing that can calm your body and clear your mind.

The Breathing Exercise:

Inhale Sharply Through Your Nose: Take a deep, sharp inhalation through your nose for two counts. This “action breath” helps to prepare your body to focus and engage.

Exhale Slowly Through Your Mouth: Exhale gently through your mouth for four counts. This “release and relax breath” helps to calm the nervous system and release tension.

Repeat: Continue this breathing pattern for a few minutes. The extended exhale is particularly effective in triggering the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body and counters the adrenaline rush.

Practice Regularly

Integrate Into Daily Routine: Incorporate this breathing exercise into your daily routine, not just when you’re nervous. Regular practice can make it a more effective tool when you really need it.

Pre-Speech Routine: Make it a part of your pre-speech preparation. Practicing this breathing technique before going on stage can help you enter a more centered and calm state.

What can a person do to ensure that people will remember the talk and that it won’t just go in one ear and out the other? Can you share how you gauge and adapt to audience reactions in real time during your talk to ensure maximum engagement?

Ensuring that your talk is memorable and engaging requires a combination of vocal delivery techniques and interactive elements. Here’s how to make your presentation stand out and resonate long after you’ve left the stage:

Enhancing Memorability Through Vocal Tonality

Utilize Melodic Variation: Your voice can be a powerful tool in making your message stick. Vocal tonality accounts for about 35% of what the audience takes in during a talk. By creating a melody with your voice, you engage more parts of the brain — specifically the episodic memory, which is crucial for storing personal experiences. This can be achieved by varying your pitch, tone, and pace to create a dynamic range that keeps the audience interested and helps them remember key points more vividly.
Practice Vocal Control: Work on controlling your vocal dynamics to emphasize important points and to keep the auditory experience interesting. You might raise your volume to highlight a crucial idea or slow your pace when you want the audience to absorb complex information. This variation not only helps in maintaining attention but also makes the recall of these moments more likely.

Engaging the Audience with Questions

Start with a Question: Begin your talk with an intriguing question to immediately engage your audience’s interest. This sets the tone for a participative atmosphere and makes the audience feel involved in the journey you’re about to take them on.
Incorporate Questions Throughout: Continue to pose questions throughout your presentation. This technique helps maintain engagement by encouraging the audience to think about how the information relates to them personally. It also breaks the flow of a traditional monologue, making the talk more conversational.

Adapting to Audience Reactions in Real-Time

Read the Room: Pay attention to non-verbal cues from your audience, such as facial expressions, body language, and overall energy levels. Are they leaning forward with interest, or do they look confused? These cues can tell you a lot about how your message is being received.
Adjust Accordingly: If you notice signs of confusion or disinterest, you might need to clarify your points further or switch up your delivery style. This could mean slowing down, rephrasing complex ideas, or injecting a quick anecdote or humor to lighten the mood and regain attention.
Interactive Feedback: If the format allows, you can ask for immediate feedback or thoughts from the audience on a point you just made. This not only clarifies understanding but also keeps the interaction dynamic and responsive.
Use Pauses Effectively: Strategic pauses after key points or questions give the audience time to think and absorb the information. This also provides you a moment to gauge the audience’s reaction and adjust your pacing or direction based on their engagement levels.

Based on your experience or research, what are the “Five Things You Need To Deliver a Highly Effective TEDx Talk ”

My framework for compelling communication emphasizes the intricate balance between nonverbal cues, vocal delivery, storytelling, and word choice to create a powerful and engaging speaking presence. Here’s a breakdown of how each component contributes to the overall effectiveness of communication:

Nonverbal Communication (50%): This is the most significant component. It includes body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanor on stage. By maintaining open body language — like keeping “air in the armpits” to avoid closed-off postures — you signal openness and honesty. Facial expressions, particularly the use of eyebrows, can express engagement and recognition, making the audience feel seen and acknowledged. Such nonverbal signals are crucial because they convey confidence and connectiveness without words.

Vocal Tonality (35%): This refers to the use of tone, pitch, pace, and volume in speech, as outlined earlier. The way you modulate your voice can dramatically affect how your message is received. Varied intonations keep the audience engaged and emphasize your message’s emotional components, making your speech dynamic and compelling.

Storytelling (13%): Effective storytelling is a powerful tool for connection. By sharing personal stories, you evoke emotions and stimulate the release of oxytocin in the brain, which fosters a sense of bonding and empathy. Your story should be relatable in such a way that it encourages the audience to reflect on their own experiences, deepening their emotional investment in what you’re saying and enhancing the human connection.

Word Choice (5%): The specific words you choose play a crucial role, albeit a smaller one in this framework. The key is to use powerful, inclusive language that addresses the diverse learning styles of the audience. By incorporating visuals, kinesthetic descriptions, and auditory cues in your speech, you can ensure that your message resonates with visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners alike. This approach helps personalize the experience for each listener, making them feel as though you are speaking directly to them.

EXAMPLE:

One of the most inspiring examples of the power of public speaking comes from a TEDx event featuring one of my early clients, who was paraplegic. Despite the physical limitations of needing to remain seated for the majority of his presentation, his speech left an unforgettable mark on the audience.

From the moment he began to speak, it was clear that he understood the importance of using what he could to engage the room. His facial expressions were remarkably expressive; every smile, frown, and arched eyebrow was perfectly timed to enhance his storytelling, making every member of the audience feel personally addressed and deeply involved in his narrative.

His hand gestures, though limited, were impactful — each movement deliberate and full of meaning, complementing his words and amplifying his points. But it was his vocal tonality that truly captivated everyone. He modulated his voice to convey a spectrum of emotions, from quiet determination to soaring inspiration. This vocal dynamism kept the audience hanging on his every word, proving that voice alone can paint vivid pictures and evoke strong emotions.

The climax of his talk was a moment of powerful demonstration: he stood up, showcasing his journey and struggle against his physical limitations, symbolizing the message that anything is possible with perseverance and courage. This act, combined with his masterful use of voice and limited but effective gestures, earned him the only standing ovation of the day.

His presentation was not just a display of personal triumph, but a masterclass in using available tools to connect with an audience and leave a lasting impact. This story exemplifies how effective communication transcends physical limitations and highlights the importance of vocal delivery and nonverbal cues in making a memorable speech.

After delivering a TEDx talk, what strategies do you use to maximize its impact and reach? Could you share how to engage with your audience through social media, follow-up events, or other means to encourage action or further discussion on the topic?

Create your own list of raving fans who will share your talk when it becomes available- start this today as you are applying, so you are ready to go when your talk is released.

Make sure to follow the rules on this page and under TEDx rules in all of your promotional materials.

Having a blog on your website allows you to post frequent updates about your event on your website, keeping it fresh and personal. Your communications and marketing director should bring in a person who has experience blogging to be the “storyteller” for your event.

A storyteller is someone who can update event guests and the public about your event in a compelling, unique way. While marketers get people interested, storytellers keep people interested. They’re the online “voice” for the event.

Often, storytellers are also the person managing your social media accounts.

Your blog should be hosted on your website, and updated at least once or twice per week. Subjects of blog posts can include speaker announcements and interviews, newly released TED Talks, your own TEDx Talks, and event updates.

Email updates

In addition to a blog, you should be sending regular email updates to your guests. It’s the most direct way to stay in touch with your guests and ensure they’re getting all of your event’s updates.

Engage the press

Press is an exciting way to bring attention to your event, speakers, and performers. Just remember that it’s very important to clearly distinguish your TEDx event as independently organized, and not an official TED event.

The best way to engage the press is to through a press release. All press and press releases must be routed through for approval by the TEDx program’s media liaison, Melody Serafino at [email protected]. Press releases must contain the “About TED” and “About TEDx” text as well as:

Your event’s name (e.g., TEDxAustin, TEDxDubai)

Location (be specific!)

Date and time

Whether your event is public or private.

List of speakers

Your event’s theme

Website and/or social media accounts

Live webcast URL (if applicable)

Your contact information

The following paragraph:

About TEDx, x = independently organized event

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

The following copy:

About TED

TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or fewer) delivered by today’s leading thinkers and doers. Many of these talks are given at TED’s annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, and made available, free, on TED.com. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Nandan Nilekani, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Sal Khan and Daniel Kahneman.

TED’s open and free initiatives for spreading ideas include TED.com, where new TED Talk videos are posted daily; the TED Translators Program, which provides subtitles and interactive transcripts as well as translations from thousands of volunteers worldwide; the educational initiative TED-Ed; the annual million-dollar TED Prize, which funds exceptional individuals with a “wish,” or idea, to create change in the world; TEDx, which provides licenses to thousands of individuals and groups who host local, self-organized TED-style events around the world; and the TED Fellows program, which selects innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities.

Follow TED on Twitter at http://twitter.com/TEDTalks, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TED or Instagram at https://instagram.com/ted.

Due to a large number of events, TED does not provide quotes for individual press releases.

You’re required to read the TEDx Press Guidelines in order to submit a press release.

Create a TEDx trailer

Creating a trailer or “teaser” for your TEDx event is a creative and dynamic way to get people intrigued by your event. For example, check out this compilation of TEDx teaser videos.

How can our readers watch your TEDx talk and follow your work?

Here is a way to access my ebook, videos, and resources for Free:

https://www.erinlomanjeck.com/Yourtedxbible

Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!

TEDx Talking: Erin Loman Jeck On What You Need To Know To Secure, Prepare, and Deliver a Highly… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.