The #1 Reason Talks Fall Apart
Anna Goldsmith
Got something important to say? I can help you find the right words. (TEDx producer, speaker coach, copywriter)
Watch or read on!
On our application, after name and email, the first question we ask is: “What’s your Big Idea?” If an applicant takes more than about 15 words to explain it, I know they don’t have it yet.
The best ideas are easy to articulate and spark curiosity. Here are a few examples from the TED stage:
Now, maybe you're thinking, “Well, TED talks are short, so of course, there is only ONE big idea. But I’m speaking for an hour. I probably need several big ideas, right?”
NO!
ALL THE BEST TALKS ARE FOCUSED ON A SINGLE, BIG IDEA
Big ideas aren’t just for the TED stage. Every great talk is built around a single big idea.
Consider JFK’s "Inaugural Address": "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country." Or Michelle Obama's speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention: "When they go low, we go high." – 7 words!
It doesn’t matter how long your talk is. For example, my talk is 45 minutes long, but I only have one big idea: if you want to be an effective speaker, learn to talk like TED.
BIG IDEA IS SINGULAR.
There’s a reason for this: As listeners, we’re not good at holding more than one idea in our heads at a time.
If your talk is longer, just add more sections. But here’s the key: each section must serve your big idea.
SO HOW DO YOU FIND THAT BIG IDEA?
Here’s what I tell my speakers:
Once you have a general idea of what you want to talk about, start by seeing what others are saying about the same topic. For example, if you want to give a TED talk about leadership, Google “TED + leadership.”
What talks are already out there, and what can you add to the conversation?
If you're not giving a TED talk, ask what other experts like you are saying. What are they missing?
And if you can’t find any similar talks, ask someone who might be in your audience what questions they have about your topic. What do you wish they KNEW?
TO SUM IT UP ...
A great talk is defined by its clarity and focus. Whether your talk is 7 minutes or 45 minutes, it’s crucial to stick to one big idea. Finding that idea means identifying what’s missing in the conversation and what can spark curiosity in your audience. Stay focused, and make sure every part of your presentation aligns with that core message.
Want help finding your big idea or writing an upcoming talk or keynote?
Book a free 15-minute consultation, and we'll create a plan together. I'm also happy to answer any questions you have. https://calendly.com/thehiredpens/15-minute-consultation-free