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Insider Tips for Landing a TEDx Talk🎤

  • Jun 30
  • 5 min read


7 Insider Tips for Landing a TEDx Talk 🎤


One highlight from last week was reviewing TEDx applications from several speakers who are aspiring TEDx speakers. I've helped them find TEDx speaking opportunities and now we are working on their applications together!


As I was providing feedback to them independently on their applications, I quickly realized that much of what I was suggesting is also relevant to anyone who aspires to become a TEDx speaker and stand on the TEDx stage. 


Is that you?


So in the spirit of helping you too become a TEDx speaker and sharing your story and message to spark ideas and positive change, I thought I'd share a few of the same insights with you.


Three quick disclaimers:


First, I have no affiliation with TED or TEDx. I don't represent TED, receive compensation from them, or benefit in any way from recommending TEDx speaking.


Second, any insights and recommendations I have about becoming a TEDx speaker come from my own experiences speaking on the TEDx stage a few times, serving as a TEDx Speaker Coach for dozens of speakers, serving as a volunteer for several events and being Head Organizer for a major TEDx event. I've had the privilege of seeing the process from both sides of the application, and that perspective has taught me quite a bit.


Third and finally, while TEDx speakers don't get paid to speak, I can honestly say that my first TEDx talk became the launchpad for my speaking business. It has led to dozens of paid speaking engagements over the years, especially my most recent one, and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunities that followed. But don't pursue TEDx for this reason. Just focus on delivering an extraordinary TEDx talk -- the byproduct result will follow.


With that context, here are seven insights I'd encourage every aspiring TEDx speaker to keep in mind.


1. Be intentional about where you apply.

One mistake I see quite often is when speakers apply to every TEDx event they can find. They are scattered, hurry the process, and don't invest the appropriate time on their application. So you should invest time researching each TEDx event to qualify their event as much as they will qualify you as the applicant. Observe the quality of their previous event talks online, learn about the organizers, look at their website and social media profiles, and pay attention to the kinds of ideas/themes they tend to feature.Every TEDx event is independent and develops its own personality. Find one where your idea naturally belongs instead of simply trying to get accepted anywhere.


2. Have one crystal-clear idea.

This may be the biggest piece of advice I can offer. Many applications contain several interesting ideas which means they compete for attention. Rather, the strongest applications contain one unforgettable idea.


Any decent TEDx event and application process will ask you to share what your "idea" is. So prepare accordingly. If you cannot summarize your talk in one sentence, your idea probably isn't clear enough yet. (note: this is what I enjoy most about helping future TEDx speakers to clarify their idea with confidence.)


3. Simpler language always wins.

One litmus test I often recommend is this: If an intelligent eighth grader read your application, would they immediately understand your idea? Articulate and position your idea in a way that's quick and easy to understand.


Many speakers unintentionally hide brilliant ideas behind abstract language and credentials trying to be impressive. Ironically, simplifying your words doesn't make your message feel smaller—it usually makes it more powerful.


4. Concepts inform. Stories persuade.

TEDx event organizers and selection committees want more stories and relevance versus concepts and abstract ideas.


TEDx talks are remembered because people remember the stories and examples—not because they remember the definitions and scientific frameworks.


5. Don't hide your "why."

One application I was reviewing started with a drowning incident that sparked a new way of life and career.


Immediately I was hooked and wanted to know more.If you've lived an event, incident or even trauma that shaped why you care so deeply about your topic, don't bury it halfway through your application. Lead WITH IT! 


Help the selection committee understand not only what your idea is, but why you're the person who needs to share it. 


6. Prepare before applications ever open.

Any decent TEDx application will ask similar questions. Could you confidently answer these today?

  • What is your Idea in one sentence?

  • How has your idea been applied in real life?

  • Could you record a compelling one-minute video introducing your idea?

  • Why are you the best person to present this idea?

  • How is your idea relevant to someone living in another country?


Those questions may sound simple, but they're often the hardest part of the application process. The clearer your answers become, the stronger your application will be.


And once you're able to answer questions like these above, you're ready for nearly any TEDx application!  So rinse and repeat with F.O.C.U.S.!  (Follow One Course Until Squirrel)


7. Realize what organizers are really asking.

Every answer on your TEDx application should leave the selection committee thinking: 

"People need to hear this."


That's ultimately what TEDx is searching for. It's more than simply being a great speaker. It's more than sharing a compelling story.


The speakers who get selected for TEDx have a clear idea, they have a story that is captivating and expertise that demonstrates their idea in action.


Extra thoughts...

Standing on the TEDx stage didn't change my life and career because I was able to say I was a TEDx speaker.


Becoming a TEDx speaker changed my life and career because the process forced me to become radically clear about my idea. That clarity has served me long after the applause ended, and it continues to shape every keynote I deliver today.


If standing on the TEDx stage has been one of your goals, don't just hope it happens—prepare for it.


Whether you're pursuing your first TEDx talk or your fifth, I'd be honored to help you refine your idea, learn how to find TEDx opportunities, strengthen your application, and prepare for the speaking opportunity when it comes.


I offer both a TEDx On-Demand Training Program as well as 1:1 TEDx Coaching and TEDx Group Coaching for aspiring TEDx speakers. 

** In fact, if you work with me 1:1, I'll guarantee your selection on the TEDx stage. 

I'd love to help you. Let me know if I can help.

—Kevin




Earn greatness today! Onward and upward.

Want to speak professionally, part-time or full-time?

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I've been honored to present for over 1,000,000 people through 1,150+ audiences in all 50 states and several countries. Whether I'm on a stage or in a training room with professionals or students, I absolutely LOVE motivating and inspiring people for higher performance. And in addition to my own speaking business, I have a passion for helping and coaching speakers learn how to catapult their speaking whether part-time or full-time. My book, PAID to SPEAK, outlines a proven model for speakers and is now an online course as well! Click here for online course info!


If you are serious about becoming a professional speaker, explore my coaching and mentorship options. I don't want you to flounder like I did and be frustrated.














 
 
 

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