Neil Pasricha’s “3 A’s of Awesome” from TEDxToronto.

[ted id=1048]

Thanks to Tracy for sharing this with me.

It’s impossible to be a good speaker and communicator if you don’t know what a good speech looks like, which is why I try to share examples of great speeches with you when I find them. It’s also one of the reasons that I think TED is such a great resource for presenters. Short talks by some of the worlds best presenters and communicators. For free. If you’re thirsty for more, check out some of these previous posts.

Hello all!

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the time to complete the next post in my Slide Redesign 101 series. I’ll most likely get it out this late this afternoon and then we’ll be back on schedule tomorrow morning.

Until then, here’re a couple of really great TED talks I’ve enjoyed recently. One is brand new and the other is an oldie-but-goodie.

Brene Brown: The Power Of Vulnerability

This is quite the amazing talk. Brene is a very good communicator. Her poise on stage, her use of humor, her pacing and pauses are all very well done. Aside from her excellent delivery, though, her message is one worth noting. This is what makes a truly great presentation: great message, great delivery. And her slides are quite good as well. Enjoy.

[ted id=1042]

Scott McCloud on comics

Scott is the author of one of my favorite books on visual thinking and communication, Understanding Comics. In this talk, he talks about what it’s like to be an analytical mind engaged in creating art. While his delivery is a bit rushed, his message is still very fascinating and this may give you an idea of his style so  you can decide whether or not his book might be for you.

[ted id=432]

“Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets.”

Miss Maude’s statement about Atticus’ integrity is one of the most memorable lines to me from To Kill A Mockingbird. It sticks out in my mind today even though I haven’t read the book since it was required reading during my senior year in high school.

Something happens when you’re in front of people. It’s really easy to slip into an act. The sad thing, though, is that as hard as we work to make it convincing, we’re usually only fooling ourselves.

People are naturally very good at sensing when someone’s isn’t being genuine, and presentation audiences are no exception. So the challenge is to eliminate all pretense from your delivery. Don’t be what you think your audience wants you to be. You’re already what they want you to be. They came to hear you. Be authentic. Be yourself.

[image:totalfilm.com]