So You Want to Be a TEDx Speaker?
“When opportunity knocks, don't let fear hold you back. Open the door and embrace the opportunity that has come forth.” —Unknown
The stage. The "red circle". The large audience. I walked over to that plush, red, and shaggy rug, took a deep breath, and thought about the message of impact I wanted to share with the world. Who would have ever thought I would have the opportunity of a lifetime to become a TEDx speaker, especially while I was in medical school?
If you are not familiar with what this is, a TEDx event is a local gathering where live TED-like talks and performances are shared with the community. TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment, and Design converged. Today it spans a multitude of worldwide communities and initiatives exploring everything from science and business to education, arts, and global issues. There are several types of TED events including TED ( held annually on the North American West Coast), TEDWomen, TEDGlobal, etc. TEDx are local events held in cities/communities. They are a conference of short, prepared talks given by local community members that are idea-focused and cover a wide range of subjects to foster learning, inspiration, and wonder – and provoke conversations that matter. The talks are then recorded and uploaded to digital platforms so that these ideas worth sharing are available for the world to see.
Back in January 2023, I had no idea I would have the opportunity of a lifetime to become a TEDxSavannah Speaker. One of my bucket list items was to one day become a public speaker and one day have a chance to be a TEDx speaker. Who knew it would happen in a matter of months, while I was in medical school right before residency? It blows my mind to think that this would happen when it did. How did this all happen? My older brother, a savvy videographer, was asked to record a workshop hosted by the Hostess City Toastmasters Club in collaboration with the TEDx Savannah Board. He felt led to share this opportunity with me and I felt compelled to attend as they were discussing how to become a successful TEDx Speaker. I figured since I had the time, I should just try to attend and I am so glad that I did.
During the workshop, I remember the board members telling us their stories of how they became TEDxSavannah speakers while also giving the classroom of avid listeners tips based on their experiences. At the end, they announced they were taking applications for an upcoming event that was a whopping 4 months away. What's even crazier was that applications would be due by the end of the following week! I was not sure if I could make the deadline but since I had an idea I wanted to share based on their theme of "Connection." I worked day and night to apply. I was not sure if it was the right time to pursue this opportunity. However, I figured, when the Lord opens a door, I might as well try to walk through it. I was the youngest person to speak with only some experience within my field from being a medical student. Next thing you know, I submitted an application, was called in to give a three-minute pitch based on my idea, and then was selected to be a speaker. After months of writing and re-writing drafts of this speech, learning how to memorize, and constantly practicing, I had my moment to walk on that stage. It was the best experience I could have ever dreamed of!
The experience was both exhilarating and fulfilling. Now looking back at that experience, I am sure there are readers out there who would like to know how they can become a TEDx speaker. Here are my tips from my experience on how you can become a TEDx Speaker:
Find a TEDx opportunity near you
To find a TEDx opportunity near you, I suggest you perform a basic internet search. You can find your local city or a city near you and visit their website to learn information. For example, my hometown is the city of Savannah and our TEDx organization is called TEDxSavannah. Simply, contact the board members about when their next event will be and when applications will be open.
Create Your Idea
Storytelling is incredibly powerful and the impact you can have with stories can have a lasting influence on how people perceive the world around them. As you approach your ideas, think of the stories you could tell that could drive your idea home. Your idea does not have to be something that is completely original but it does need to be unique enough to stand out. When I spoke about empathy, I chose to talk about something from my perspective as a rising medical professional in the healthcare field. Empathy is something everyone has heard of but my topic of embracing empathy while protecting your own mental wellness was... UNIQUE. Think about what inspires you and what you believe is important enough to share with others. What positive change or deeper conversations can sharing your idea create? An idea worth sharing is one that has the power to help others in some form or fashion.
Apply and Wait for the Callback for a Pitch
Now that you have an idea, it is time to apply! Most applications are simple and they want you to share an idea and a short brief synopsis of what the key takeaway is for the audience. Be sure to be clear and concise. For my application, I shared my experiences with speech writing and public speaking. I also shared some of my accomplishments with my writing as an author. It is your time to sell yourself and why your idea is worth sharing so SELL it well! If you are offered the opportunity to give a 3-minute pitch (not memorized), provide a brief elevator version of your talk that shares your idea, a story, and a key takeaway. You can certainly use note cards, read off your tablet, or bring a print out of your pitch. Depending on the TEDx board, there may be a question and answer session afterward. You know your stories and you know your facts. Be confident and do your very best.
Prepare Your Speech
So you've been selected?! Congratulations! What's next is the fun part - writing your speech! Most TEDx boards will provide coaches to assist you as well. My best advice: write your speech in a way that is comfortable with how you speak. Tell stories and share facts. Use descriptive words when you can and make sure your key takeaway points are clear and concise. Speech writing is a skill. Here is a blog I found helpful in my journey!
Memorize and Practice
I think I had a leg up on memorization because, in medical school, I had to learn to memorize so many facts in such a short amount of time. Memorizing a speech, however, was an entirely different experience. How on earth will I memorize a 10-12 minute speech? IS it even possible? I am glad to report that, YES, it truly is. Once you get to the stage of your speech has been approved after many different drafts, it is time to memorize and practice.
I used several different techniques at various stages. At first, I read the speech out loud in segments or in paragraphs. I read it several times and looked at it constantly. This was helpful to include visual and auditory components. The biggest game changer was when I narrowed down my speech into an outline and then explained my speech out loud to myself. I imagined I was telling someone a quick summary of what my speech was about in about 2-3 minutes. Once I had the concept of the order of the paragraphs and the flow of my speech, this made practicing much easier. I eventually recorded myself and played it while I was running on the treadmill, driving in the car, or even while I was eating a meal.
Eventually, once I was at a place where I felt comfortable with knowing my speech, I began to think about how I wanted to perform the speech. I made notes on the emotions I wanted to evoke with the stories and what hand gestures I wanted to use. I began to think about the tone of my voice and when to be excited, serious, or funny. I then started practicing standing up and delivering it. After all, the speech is more than a talk... it is a performance. I recorded myself on video and watched it to see my posture, facial emotions, and hand gestures, making changes as I saw fit. Then, once you are comfortable, you can start to deliver in front of small crowds like other fellow speakers or your close family/loved ones. Your talk is supposed to be a secret so do not share your speech or ideas to many people. If you have PowerPoint slides, make sure you feel comfortable with clicking through them, or, if it is an option, have it arranged for the technicians to click through it for you. At this point, you are almost ready!
Images/Slides
Since I mentioned slides for a slideshow, here are my five tips for creating good slides:
Make them simple with as few words as possible. It can distract the audience from paying attention to you if they are reading a slide. If you use words, use a large, bold font as well.
If you have diagrams, make sure they are easy to interpret. Anyone should be able to watch your talk and understand what is presented.
Use original pictures that are not copyrighted. Make sure you confirm with the TEDx team about any images that have copyrights to see what is legally acceptable.
Do not have too many slides! Only have them if it is necessary.
If you do not need a slideshow, do not feel pressured to make one. If props are more appropriate, you can also consider this as well.
Think of Your Outfit
When giving your talk, think about what is comfortable for you. You don't want to wear anything with patterns like stripes or polka dots that will appear distorted on camera. Most speakers wear black or darker colors but I recommend something that will pop out against the background so that you do not blend in. Find something that allows you flexibility if you involve movement in your presentation and wear shoes that allow you to stand comfortably. The last thing you need is to have foot pain while you are delivering your speech. Check out this blog to learn more.
THE BIG DAY!
It is now time to perform your speech! Typically, there is a dress rehearsal prior to the big day, which is incredibly helpful to get out the initial butterflies and to allow you to iron out the kinks. On the day of the speech, listen to your favorite music to calm you or pump you up! Know that you worked hard and the best thing you can do at that moment on stage is to be yourself! I remember seeing the people and taking a deep breath. I was not nervous at all because I was so focused on the impact I hoped to make. If you are excited about your talk, so will others. You will exude confidence and the audience will enjoy everything you have to say. Don't forget to also take time to enjoy watching other speakers as well to support them!
WOW! That was a lot to cover but hey, I hope you learned something new! Becoming a TEDx speaker is an incredible experience! I definitely plan on giving another one soon. I hope you feel encouraged to give it a try! If you find yourself applying and not getting the opportunity to give a speech, please feel encouraged to try again! Your dream of becoming a TEDx speaker can become a reality and when it does, you will ABSOLUTELY do a fantastic job. I am so greateful for the not only the opportunity to speak but the amazing individuals I met along the way! We became a TEDx family and I hope you have the opportunity to join that family one day. Be encouraged to apply and many blessings to you on your journey! If the opportunity comes, go ahead and give it a go!
To apply to become a 2024 TEDxSavannah Speaker, click here.
Applications are due by Sunday, January 21, 2024.
To view my 2023 TEDxSavannah speech, click here.
Embrace Empathy for You and Me.
Prayer for Opportunities
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the opportunities you have laid before me. I am entirely grateful for the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of others and I ask that as I explore the opportunities in front of me, please use me as a vessel to share the goodness of your glory. It is my prayer that you help me to be successful in this endeavor. Open doors for me to do things that are aligned with your perfect will for my life. In Jesus Christ, I pray, amen.
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