Let the Lectern Languish

Haydock Park – 2016. I was presenting that morning for 45 minutes and as is my volition, I was working with the sound team to ensure my visuals and the microphone would work without a hitch. This team can make or break your talk so they’re important allies. I looked up at the stage and someone had put an enormous bright white wooden lectern on the stage. Without thinking I blurted out “Who’s put that monstrosity on the stage?” “I did” defended the head technician. “Whoops” I thought as I…

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What Makes a Talk a TED Talk

I was invited to give a 10 minute talk last month to an audience of 100 people. When asked how I was going to structure it, I said I’d do a TED style talk. We’ve all heard of TED talks, watched them on YouTube and my client was intrigued to know more. “Paul I’ve seen and loved TED talks, but what specifically makes it a TED talk?” So I answered: A common theme throughout the talk. Substance over style – it’s the content that really matters, not necessarily the style.…

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