Solo(ish): Insights on Networking & Referrals
Present Like a Pro
Are you stressed out about your upcoming featured presentation? Are you worried about whether you’re going to get your message across? Concerned if anyone will remember anything you said? Some people think that a featured presentation is merely to give a talk in front of slides on a screen, share a childhood story, divulge a […]
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Are you stressed out about your upcoming featured presentation? Are you worried about whether you’re going to get your message across? Concerned if anyone will remember anything you said?

Some people think that a featured presentation is merely to give a talk in front of slides on a screen, share a childhood story, divulge a personal secret, and end with an inspiring call to action.

No. That’s not how to think of a featured presentation. If you overuse those devices, you’re just going to come across as cliche or repetitive.

Today I’m sharing a few short presentations from the best in the biz when it comes to short presentations. TED. If you’ve ever heard a TED talk, then you know how they all seem so polished, articulate, and inspiring. That’s because they get training and mentoring from the best of the best.

Before you dive into editing all 56 slides of photos down to just ten and rehearsing your talk to get it in under 9 minutes, give these short videos a watch and learn some tips from the pros.

The secret structure of great talks. From the “I have a dream” speech to Steve Jobs’ iPhone launch, many great talks have a common structure that helps their message resonate with listeners. In this talk, presentation expert Nancy Duarte shares practical lessons on how to make a powerful call-to-action. 19min.

TED’s secret to great public speaking. There’s no single formula for a great talk, but there is a secret ingredient that all the best ones have in common. TED curator Chris Anderson shares this secret — along with four ways to make it work for you. Do you have what it takes to share an idea worth spreading? Watch time: 8min.

How to speak so that people want to listen. Have you ever felt like you’re talking, but nobody is listening? Here’s Julian Treasure to help. In this useful talk, the sound expert demonstrates the how-to’s of powerful speaking — from some handy vocal exercises to tips on how to speak with empathy. A talk that might help the world sound more beautiful.

 

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