The Gift of the Gab – it can be taught like any other topic!

My article this week is about the Trinity Business School’s 100-year celebration and the TEDx event they hosted, entitled “Change 101”.  

What were my observations about the TEDx event? 

Trinity Business School spared no expense in supporting the TEDx event.

The TBS team appointed to lead the project did so with gusto. Their task was to ensure that the event went off without a hitch, and it did.

My main point of contact was Maria L Gallo, a Canadian with Italian blood, whose energy and ambition for the project was infectious.

Maria’s selection of speakers was well researched. Those chosen included academics and students who understood the opportunities TEDx talks could offer for personal growth and career development.

Let me tell you a little about some of the speakers I got to know and support. Over a short period, they created some of the most engaging and entertaining talks I have had the pleasure of hearing in quite some time.

What were the key takeaways from coaching the TEDx speakers? 

Brendan Kennelly, Poet, Author and Professor of English at Trinity, said that to be a good teacher, you must do two things: “give your audience confidence to ask questions and have fun”.

It’s something I think about and focus on every time I am in front of a group of people.

With this group of TEDx wannabes, it was easy. A more enthusiastic group I have rarely come across.

So, where does my coaching start? 

I always start by listening to the speaker’s ideas that they wish to share with an audience. 

This group had the most engaging and wide-ranging topics, from Exomoons to Loneliness in the age of AI. In between were talks on Jealousy, Resilience, Social Media, Culture, not to forget How to Succeed as a Racing Driver, or the Determination Required to Represent Ireland on the Rugby Field.

Do I know about all these topics? Of course not. The speakers are the experts. 

My job is to take their knowledge and skills and help them craft a story that excites education and entertains a general audience.

I provide a conversation structure that works for their topic while rearranging the story to ensure the following: 

You get attention / create interest / provide information / demonstrate your expertise on your topic.
While concluding by reminding your audience of how taking your advice could benefit them or someone they care about. 

All the talks will be hosted on TED in the next month or so. I would strongly advise you to seek them out; you will benefit from doing so.

There is a taster video available on my LinkedIn profile.

By Executive Coach Andrew Keogh of Aristo.ie