TED Talks are way more than just regular lectures; they’re like a masterclass in sales, psychology, and motivation rolled into one. Each is packed with insights that could change your thoughts about sales.
So, here’s a cool thing we’ve put together at D2DCon: our list of the “Top 10 Ted Talks Every Sales Professional Should Watch in 2024.”
Trust me, you don’t want to miss these – they can change your sales game!
1. “The Puzzle of Motivation” by Dan Pink
What motivates you to sell? Is it money, recognition, or something else? Dan Pink challenges the old assumption that rewards and punishments are the best way to motivate people.
Dan Pink throws the old ‘carrot and stick’ approach out the window. He shows us that true motivation comes from within.
He shows us that intrinsic motivation, the drive to do something for its own sake, is much more powerful and sustainable. He also reveals the three elements of intrinsic motivation: autonomy, mastery, and purpose.
Speaking of motivation, if you’re looking to fire up your sales team, why not grab some tickets to D2Dcon? It’s the perfect place to get inspired and apply these intrinsic motivation principles!
2. “How to Get Your Ideas to Spread” by Seth Godin
How do you stand out in a crowded market? How do you get people to notice and care about your product or service?
Seth Godin has the answer: be remarkable.
He explains that in today’s world, being average is not enough. You have to be different, unique, and remarkable. Create something people will discuss, share, and remember.
3. “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are” by Amy Cuddy
Your body language doesn’t just impact how others see you but also how you see yourself.
Amy Cuddy shows us that adopting certain poses can boost our confidence, performance, and happiness. She calls them power poses, and they are simple and effective ways to change your mindset and physiology.
Amy Cuddy’s talk on power poses is a total game-changer.
You can learn even more about non-verbal sales techniques at D2Dcon and practice your power pose in real-time with industry experts!
4. “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown
Vulnerability: Is it a weakness or a strength?
Brené Brown argues that it is the latter. She shows us that vulnerability is the key to connection, creativity, and courage and that it’s not about being perfect but authentic.
In sales, this can make a huge difference. It can help you build customer trust, rapport, and loyalty.
5. “The Art of Asking” by Amanda Palmer
How do you ask for what you want in sales? Do you feel comfortable, confident, and clear? Or awkward, anxious, and vague?
Amanda Palmer shows us that asking is an art that can be learned.
She demonstrates how she built a loyal fan base by asking for their support, feedback, and collaboration.
In sales, this can be a game-changer. It can help you create value, solve problems, and close deals.
D2Dcon is all about helping you ask the right questions, learning to listen to the correct answers, and building the right relationships in sales.
6. “What Makes Us Feel Good About Our Work?” by Dan Ariely
Money, recognition, or impact?
What drives you or makes you work harder toward your sales career?
Dan Ariely explores the psychology of work satisfaction by showing us that it’s not just the outcome but the process that makes us feel good about our work. He also demonstrates that our dissatisfaction or disassociation with work is rooted in the meaninglessness of it – a wake-up call for many.
7. “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” by Simon Sinek
How do you inspire others to buy from you, work with you, or follow you?
Simon Sinek has a simple but powerful formula: Start with the “Why.”
He explains that people don’t buy what you do; they believe why you do it. He also explains that great leaders communicate their why, then their how, and then their what.
This approach allows leaders to attract and inspire people who share their vision, values, and beliefs.
8. “The Surprising Habits of Original Thinkers” by Adam Grant
As a sales rep, how do you think outside the box and develop new and better ideas, solutions, and strategies?
Adam reveals the habits of original thinkers who challenge the status quo and change the world. He shows us how they embrace doubt, procrastinate strategically, and fail wisely.#
He also shows us how they overcome the fear of rejection, criticism, and ridicule.
9. “Listening to Shame” by Brené Brown
Brené Brown tackles overcoming shame and fear.
How do you overcome the negative emotions that hold you back from reaching your full potential? Brené Brown tackles these tough questions with courage and compassion. She shows us how shame and fear are universal and powerful but also how we can overcome them with empathy and resilience. She also shows us how to use shame and fear as catalysts for growth, change, and innovation. In sales, this can be a game-changer. It can help you face challenges, learn from failures, and achieve your goals.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it – a lineup of TED Talks that can transform how you view sales. But why stop there? D2Dcon is the perfect next step. It’s where you can take these insights from the screen to the stage, from theory to action.
Ready to level up your sales game?
See you at D2Dcon!
A digital marketing and sales professional specializing in content-based functional areas - Ahsan Zafeer is driven by a never-ending passion for developing, nurturing, and strategizing key content aspects. He writes extensively on sales, digital marketing, and associated trends, developments and technologies. He also serves as a digital marketing strategist and freelance consultant for globally oriented organizations. He tweets @AhsanZafeer