Tiny Talks is going for a different vibe than TED Talks and other public speaking events.
As a result, we ask that all speakers abide by a few basic rules on language and word choice when writing and giving a Tiny Talk.
Rule #1: please avoid directly telling people what to believe or how they should act.
While self help tips, motivational speeches, political/social messages and promotional messages are welcomed at a variety of other public speaking events and online platforms, Tiny Talks is not one of them.
You can still tell the audience the lessons you derived from the story you just told, but we ask that you state them as your own, without trying to force it on the audience / talk down to them (i.e. “you should never give up…” –> “I learned to never give up…”).
In doing this, we hope to create an atmosphere that allows our audience to feel safe about opening up their minds and hearts to new ideas, interests and experiences because they want to, not because they feel pressured to.
Rule #2: primarily talk in the 1st person / avoid talking in the 2nd person.
On a similar note to rule #1, you should be saying “I” or “we” significantly more often than “you”. The talk should primarily be 1st person storytelling, rather than talking to an audience in generalities.
NOTE: promotional messages. While we ask that you do not include promotional messages in your talk, as it can ruin the vibe, Jon is happy to plug something for you after your talk is over. And in doing so, it will actually make the plug more effective, since it’s not coming from you.
Additionally, please do not bring promotional materials to handout at our event (i.e. business cards, flyers, etc.).