What a Signature Talk Really Is - and What It Should Be Doing for You

Have you ever wondered what truly makes a “signature talk”… well, signature?

In this solo episode, I’m breaking down what a signature talk actually is (and what it isn’t), why most presentations fall flat, and how you can create a talk that not only connects with your audience — but also works for you as a speaker and thought leader.

This episode is especially for you if you’ve ever felt stuck in what I call “the expert trap” - where you think you have to cram in as much information and training as possible in order to provide value. (Spoiler alert: that’s not how transformation happens!)

Instead, I want you to think about your talk as an experience — one that blends your expertise, your personal journey, your big idea, and your unique perspective to move your audience and your business forward.

I share:

• The real purpose of your signature talk (hint: it’s more than education)

• The 4 key elements that make up a transformational talk

• How to position your talk for brand awareness, lead generation, and thought leadership

• An overview of our Signature Talk Canvas® framework

• Why one talk can be the foundation for everything you create, from paid keynotes to book outlines

• A behind-the-scenes look at the signature talk I’m working on now (and how it ties into my upcoming book!)

 

This episode originally aired as episode 355 on November 9, 2023.

 

Links:

Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/355/ 

Get our Signature Talk Canvas® framework and a lot more in our 24-page FREE guide and workbook on Developing Your Thought Leadership at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/guide/.

Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/

Apply for our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ 

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox

Related Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 353: The Power of Frameworks: How Sharon Ehrlich Found Her Voice and Message with Sharon Ehrlich

• Episode 288: A Framework for Creating a Signature Talk for Income and Impact

• Episode 290: [Coaching] Get More Leads from Your Presentations with Monica Young

 

JOIN US: Our in-person Speaking Accelerator Workshop is coming up in Downtown Orlando on October 30, 2025. Create and practice your signature talk in one day using our proven framework, so you can confidently share your message and attract more opportunities. It's a fun, supportive environment where you get personalized feedback, professional photos, and more. Limited to 15 attendees. Get the details and secure your spot at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/.