We recently concluded a phenomenally successful series, training speakers on how to craft and deliver a TED talk. During the process Jon Yeo, the curator of TEDx Melbourne, challenged the speakers to think about their impact per minute. Impact is the cognitive or emotional ‘a-ha’ moments you create as a speaker. Without impact points, a presentation is dead in the water and you could just send an email. (Tough love.)
So how do you create impact points?
Be yourself: The starting point is authenticity. As this quote advises: “Be yourself, unless you can be Batman. Then always be Batman”.
Paint a picture: Words can be weapons or bouquets. Seldom has impact been made using corporate jargon or clichés.
Humour me: People love to laugh. Even the most serious topic can be lifted (not diminished) through the right shade of funny.
Pack an image punch: We can have an emotional reaction to a carefully selected personal photo. Impact is never created using stock images.
Tell a story: One of TED’s commandments is thou shall tell a story. Purposeful, authentic storytelling is the most powerful way to move people and create impact.
Here’s a talk, that is a lesson in impact points by musician-turned-businessman Derek Sivers. He is able to do this in just 2.5 minutes. Spot all the impact points (hint: they are when the audience is laughing and clapping). At the end you might also have a new view of the world! It’s the ultimate impact to make.
Please comment, I love hearing from you.

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