TED Talks are short but impactful presentations known for their inspiring and educational nature. They often provoke thought and leave a memorable impression on those who watch them. Let’s take a look at five of the best TED Talks that have left a significant impact by sparking conversations and reshaping our perspectives on key aspects of life.

The talks listed below stand out for their influence, each offering a distinctive viewpoint that lingers well beyond the closing applause.

1. ‘The Hidden Power of Smiling’ – Ron Gutman

Ron Gutman’s TED Talk, The Hidden Power of Smiling, explores the benefits of something as simple as a smile. As an entrepreneur, writer, and inventor, Ron Gutman has dedicated much of his career to enhancing global well-being. He is also the founder and CEO of Intrivo, a company that offers virtual healthcare consultations. In his popular TED Talk, Ron Gutman mentions various studies and highlights how a simple smile can predict life satisfaction, and longevity, and even boost brain activity more effectively than chocolate or a large sum of money. This TED Talk is uplifting and powerful, it leaves us with an appreciation for the small act of smiling and how it can make a real difference in our lives, reinforcing what Ron Gutman says is his commitment to improving lives through both technology and human connection.

So why do we mention this? Well smiling, alongside other forms of body language, is a nonverbal signal to those around us, whether at home or in an organisation. How many times have you heard of someone feeling anxious because of the way someone looked at them?  This is especially if the look came from a manager at work! On the flipside, smiling more frequently, especially as a senior leader, helps to re-assure those around you and will instil a psychological feeling of safety within the team. Smiling lets people know everything is all right during tough times.

2. ‘How to Speak So That People Want to Listen’ – Julian Treasure

Julian Treasure, a respected British speaker and author of books like How to Be Heard, is known for his knowledge and research of sound and communication. Treasure offers some helpful advice on how to improve communication in his TED Talk, How to Speak So That People Want to Listen. He identifies seven "deadly sins" of speaking, such as gossiping, judging, and negativity, which can diminish the impact of our words. Instead, he encourages four key principles to communicate effectively: honesty, authenticity, integrity, and love. In addition, he talks about the widespread problem of not feeling heard and gives tips on how to speak in a way that attracts and holds the attention of others.

Treasure's talk offers insights for professionals, educators, and anybody who depends on efficient communication, with practical advice on voice exercises and speaking with empathy.

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3. ‘My Philosophy for a Happy Life’ – Sam Berns

Sam Berns’ TED Talk My Philosophy for a Happy Life is one of those talks that really sticks with you because of how genuine and heartfelt it is. Before his passing, Berns was living with a rare condition called Progeria, in his TED Talk, he shared his philosophy on happiness that’s simple yet powerful. He talks about focusing on what you can do, not what you can’t, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you. Despite the challenges he faced, his message is one of hope and positivity, and it’s hard not to feel inspired by his words.  Sam's outlook on life is summed up in his quote from his talk: “I don’t waste energy feeling bad for myself. I surround myself with people that I want to be with, and I keep moving forward.”

4. ‘Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are’ – Amy Cuddy

In Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are, one of the most-watched TED talks of all time,  Amy Cuddy explores something we might not think about too much - how our body language affects not just how others see us, but how we see ourselves. One of the key takeaways from the talk is the idea that by "power posing," or adopting confident postures for just two minutes, we can significantly boost our confidence and decrease stress. Though some studies have questioned the effect size of ‘power posing,’ Cuddy’s insights on the connection between posture and confidence remain influential. It’s a bit controversial and not everyone agrees with it, but it makes you rethink how much our physical stance can influence our mindset and success.

Similar to Ron Gutman’s TED Talk on smiling, body language is again key in business. It can be difficult to interpret body language at work, yet research shows that 65% of interpersonal communication is nonverbal. Understanding workplace body language is therefore a crucial soft skill for leaders in particular. See this brilliant reference from Forbes for five ways that body language impacts leadership results: Forbes - 5 Ways Body Language Impacts Leadership Results.

5. ‘The Power of Vulnerability’ – Brené Brown

Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston with a PhD in social work, has spent years researching vulnerability, courage, and human connection. Brown delivered the TED Talk "The Power of Vulnerability" over a decade ago and it continues to remain impactful today. In this talk, Brown discusses how embracing vulnerability, rather than avoiding it, leads to a deeper sense of worthiness, love, and belonging. Her research-backed insights invite the audience to rethink how we might interact with others, highlighting that openness and authenticity can create more meaningful relationships.

This talk resonates widely, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to build deeper connections. It's a presentation that strikes a personal chord with many and continues to be relevant and influential. These are key soft skills to have – its not always about knowing everything, but these communication skills can be the key to building authentic skills with your colleagues and employees below you. Showing the right level of vulnerability and humanity to others in a professional environment, without stepping over personal boundaries.

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Sometimes, it's the simplest ideas that have the most profound impact. Whether it's learning to smile more, communicating with intention or embracing vulnerability. That’s why these TED Talks remain some of the most popular and impactful to date, with each talk offering a fresh perspective that encourages us to reflect on how we approach life and relationships. Which of these ideas will you take with you?

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