TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking

TED talks have a reputation for being highly engaging and informative. What is the secret? This book explores why we engage with public speakers in ways we don't in other mediums. It also details many key points needed to make a good talk. With all the topics covered there are general points on best practices. Though there are usually openings to go against the flow if a speaker is comfortable or skilled in a specific area.

The constraints of the speaking environment can be beneficial. A shorter time frame requires a speaker to prepare and distill the key points down. TED has an 18 minute limit, providing a concrete, limited time frame for speakers.

The visual aspects of the talk can have a great impact on the talk. A speaker that is vulnerable in the open on a stage will be received better than one standing behind a lectern. Being able to talk directly to the audience rather than read the talk from notes or a teleprompter increases engagement. It also helps to have well-pressed clothes with colors that contrast well with the background. Visual aids such as slides can distract from the talk. People are drawn to the slides and will lose focus on the actual speech. Poorly designed or busy slides can be a great impediment. Technical difficulties can also create problems.

The content of the talk is the most important part. It should not be a sales pitch or an inside story. It should be something of interest to the large audience. The talk should have an arc of what is delivered. The story should be told in a way that piques the audience's interest. Simply rearranging the points or bringing things out in a more unexpected way can make it much more engaging. Adding appropriate humor and being vulnerable is also helpful. The goal is to provide something for the audience, not to request something from them.