Matthew Whitfield
ABOUT MATTHEW:
Why are our listening skills so poor? What would we wish for if we could really listen? Why are we all so bad at remembering names? What are the 3 things do you need to know to become a "name ninja", and be that person known for being awesome at remembering everyones name? I will share 3 sure-fire techniques for doing just this, starting with introducing yourself properly, then listening and using a person's name when you are introduced.
What 3 words would you use to describe your TEDx talk?
Lively, engaging and thought-provoking.
What was the main motivation for you to do a TEDx talk?
To share a skill I have perfected, and a skill that so, so many people struggle with in their own work and personal lives.
What do you hope the audience will feel after your TEDx talk?
Happier, confident and keen to try out the techniques I share.
Were there any challenges in the preparation of your TEDx talk?
Being careful to committing to the focus time essential for preparation and rehearse, rehearse , rehearse.
Do you have any goals for your TEDx talk?
To enjoy the whole process, to deliver for Royal Tunbridge Wells 'in spades', and walk away feeling really fab for having shared an idea with the TEDx community.
What is your favourite TED talk and why?
In the early days of discovering TED, Simon Sinek talks were a favourite, but now it is more towards talks from complete unknowns like me, and from young people.
Why do you think Tunbridge Wells has proven to be such a welcoming and receptive audience for stories like yours?
It is a very well organised and run event, and reaches out to a huge diverse audience, from the UK, London and throughout the SE, and often Europe too.
What advice would you give to other people considering giving a TEDx talk?
When rehearsing, do it in front of people you love, people you fear, small groups, large groups, with peers and lastly people who are not experts in your field. Draw up a programme that start with working backwards from the rehearsal, to where you are now.
Finally, what’s the one change you’d like to see in the lives of our audience this year, following your talk?
To make a real effort to listen when someone tells you their name, and then to use it and remember it. So important to use a person's name and have the manners to remember it in the work place particularly if you are the Boss.
You can find Matthew on Twitter.
