Written by: Vickie Sullivan | December 14, 2021
Top 5 TEDWomen 2021 Talks
The TEDWomen 2021 conference earlier this month was chock-full of insights for thought leaders. Here are my five favorite presentations based on what they can teach us about branding and message strategy.
• Best memorable phrase. Late night talk show host Lilly Singh takes “the seat at the table” perspective to a whole new level. One of her many killer lines: Don’t weaponize gratitude. (Yep, women can be grateful and still know what we deserve.) The phrase is short, to the point, and unforgettable.
• Best treatment of negative responses. Musical comedian Marcia Belsky’s song about NASA and Sally Ride went viral. Her hilarious take on the male responses were priceless. We can all use humor to negate ignorant attitudes.
• Best description of work: Sociologist Michele Lamont separated herself from the pack with this opening: “I study who matters.” This laser-focus on what we do works great in crowded markets such as leadership and OD. It works great when you are a dime a dozen.
• Best thinking outside the box. Engineering professor Cecilia Aragon drilled down on fan fiction and shows how giving feedback in that environment can help teens write better at school. Great juxtaposition and screams innovative approach.
• Best overall alignment of strategy and style. Christina Tosi, chef and owner of popular bakery Milk Bar, talks about creating magic. Watch her talk to see the best example of when a speaking style moves into presence. This right here is what happens when presence and content are perfectly aligned.
Do we know these tactics? Sure. But seeing them in action not only inspires us, but it also allows you to see the nuances. Check out these talks (note: there is a fee to watch them) and use them as examples. Then adapt the ideas and apply them to your speaking and content marketing.
Now Read This:
- Top 5 speakers from TEDWomen 2019
- Your Position of Power: Packaging Your Expertise for High-Fee Markets