“TED Talks have redefined the elements of a successful presentation and become the gold standard for public speaking,” writes Carmine Gallo, author of Talk Like TED: The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds. This course is an opportunity for participants to learn and practice those nine techniques by creating and delivering a TED-style presentation on a topic of their choosing. This course helps individuals create and deliver more compelling presentations, teams strengthen relationships by learning about and from each other, and organizations challenge ineffective presentation norms. 

After actively participating in this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the nine effective TED Talk presentation techniques

• Storyboard a presentation using the “what is, what could be” presentation structure

• Deliver a presentation that is novel, memorable, and emotionally engaging

This program is delivered in three virtual, instructor-led sessions: two that support participants in planning and practicing their presentations, and a final session where they deliver their presentations and receive feedback. All sessions will take place online via Zoom. All participants who successfully complete the modules will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course.

Module 1: From the Head to the Page

March 18, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. EDT

In the first session, participants learn the nine techniques that make TED Talks memorable, novel, and emotionally engaging. Then, they learn how to structure a presentation effectively, conveying a relatable and persuasive message. After watching a TED Talk to observe how these principles and structure are applied in a presentation, participants are guided through brainstorming and storyboarding their own TED-style presentations to get their ideas out of their heads and onto the page. Participants will receive a worksheet at the end of this session to assist them in storyboarding their presentation before the second session.

Module 2: From the Page to the Stage

March 20, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. EDT

In the second session, participants learn effective ways to open and close a TED-style presentation and continue storyboarding their presentations using these techniques. They will learn tips for public speaking in virtual and in-person settings, managing anxiety, and using visual aids effectively. This session prepares participants to effectively deliver their presentations on the stage. Participants are encouraged to finalize their plans and practice their presentations before the third session.

Module 3: Delivering Your Presentation

March 25, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. EDT

In the third session, each participant will deliver their presentation and receive constructive feedback from the instructor and other participants. A recording of the presentation is made available so each participant can observe themself and note areas for improvement.

This final module will use cases to illuminate facilitation techniques, tools, and processes. Facilitation is a skill that requires practice and participants will have the opportunity to put all that they have learned into action. Afterwards, participants will discuss their experiences, and the group will generate lessons and effective practices.