Like every other facet of life, the continual evolution of the internet continues to change the way we live our lives as consumers. Not only is the way we consume goods and services changing, the way we consume information as we seek knowledge and open ourselves to new perspectives is constantly influx. For example, through online degree programs. One exciting opportunity for budding entrepreneurs is an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs can leverage the flexibility of this degree to engage in advanced learning, as well as spend time developing their budding business.
But degrees are not the only online resource for entrepreneurs. The number of podcast listeners across the country nearly doubled from 2013 to 2016. And along with podcasts, YouTube is bigger than ever with what seems like endless videos on every topic imaginable streamed onto our computers and living room smart TVs. Most avid internet users have by now heard of TED.com and perhaps spend hours being inspired and challenged by TedTalk videos. The priorities set forth by the organizers of TED.com are spread between the disciplines of technology, entertainment, and design (TED). In its own words, "TED is a global community, welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and, ultimately, the world. On TED.com, we're building a clearinghouse of free knowledge from the world's most inspired thinkers — and a community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other, both online and at TED and TEDx events around the world, all year long."
What is most interesting about TEDTalks is that it is a simple and well-balanced mixture between context (individual speakers engaging a live audience for less than 20 minutes), and content (interesting concepts and stories presented by accomplished, successful thinkers and communicators). For budding entrepreneurs who are constantly looking for ideas, inspiration and possibly encouragement, TEDTalks can be a powerful tool and a good use of time.
Although many entrepreneurs and business-leaders have taken the stage at TEDTalks, there are some that have been true standouts worth of recognition. Here are just a few of the TEDTalks presentations that should not be missed!
First is Majora Carter's 3 Stories of Local Entrepreneurship. This inspiring TEDTalks episode shares the stories of three people who are taking steps to care for their local communities using eco-friendly methods. These accounts not only reveal ways small business can thrive while still holding environmentalism as a priority, Carter also shows "real people" who audiences can identify with and possibly feel empowered after hearing their stories.
Another important TEDTalks is entitled India's Invisible Innovation delivered by Nirmalya Kumar. Kumar implores the audience to consider the "inspiring and universal nature" of entrepreneurship and innovation. From Kumar's perspective, India will continue to develop into the world's epicenter for innovation as the country continue the major shift from manufacturing into management.
The final TEDTalks that every entrepreneur must watch is Cameron Herold's Let's Raise our Kids to Be Entrepreneurs. In this TEDTalks, COO Alliance founder, Cameron Herold challenges the typically negative symptoms of a poor student (bored, failing grades, conflict with peers) and frames these as an indicator that the child might actually flourish as an entrepreneur based on what characteristics make one success in the field. By putting more of a burden on the system than the student, Herold encourages a fresh look at education and business.
These are just a few of the interesting and well-produced TEDTalks segments relating to the subject of entrepreneurship. As consumers continue to rely more heavily on the internet and streaming content for entertainment and information, resources like these will continue to be an asset to business professionals.
