If you find yourself perusing through endless inspirational TED videos, then I highly suggest you elevate that experience by attending one of their events. While one must be invited to go to a TED Conference, you can easily attend a TEDx event near your town and gain similar benefits. TEDx events are independently organized in local communities while sharing TED’s mission of “ideas worth spreading” with a global audience. By attending one of their events you get so much more than the inspirational talks online, but a day full of wonder, new friends, and complete connection. Whether you are attending your first TEDx event for fun or to seek new opportunities, here is what you need to know to live it up to the fullest.

1. Arrive early

Although there are breaks in between segments, by arriving early you get to meet volunteers and learn about their experience. I arrived 30 minutes early and got to meet Mike. He told me about his experience with organizing the event and some of the things that go into choosing a speaker like fine-tuning their talk. It was interesting getting to hear cool details and see how much goes really into it. Mike also introduced me to the event organizer and I learned about ways to get involved for the next event in 2019. There were some other early attendees there as well who I was able to chat with. Arrive early, because you never know who you will meet or who you might help just by being there!

2. Bring a notebook

There are so many talks and each is filled with so much fruit for wonder. You’re definitely going to want to jot down ideas to explore afterward. Some attendees brought iPads or their phones only to realize the inconvenience of having a bright light amidst the darkness of being in the audience.

3. Purchase the ticket that comes with lunch

It’s only a few more dollars than the ticket that doesn’t include lunch and it is definitely worth it. Not only are their lunch options healthy and delicious, but they even had vegan options! This also gives you the chance to meet with the speakers and other attendees.

4. Look into the speaker's history and their topic in advance

Pick three speakers you are most excited to see and look into their previous work or any articles they might be featured in. Learn about them and develop questions you might want to ask them at the event. This allows you to go beyond their talk and delve into deeper ideas or similarities.

5. Have a way to exchange information

This is an event for like-minded people to share their ideas. Although this isn't solely meant to network, conversation truly does spark motivation. If you happen to meet someone who you’d like to keep in touch with, I suggest you use your notebook to record their contact information. If you have business cards, don’t be afraid to use them. Although the main purpose is to take in food for thought, a valuable connection cannot go unnoticed.

6. Dress according to your lifestyle

The speakers came from diverse backgrounds including the music industry, modeling, running, comics, etc… Each of them dressed according to the lives they lived whether it be wearing a superhero t-shirt or leggings and running shoes. If you’re an artist, wear something that reflects your creativity. TEDx events aren’t meant to pressure you into wearing a suit and tie if it has nothing to do with who you are.

7. Follow up with connections

You don’t have to wait to shoot someone a message. Let your enthusiasm speak! Reach out after the event and let them know you enjoyed meeting them.

8. Share your experience!

This is the most important part. Spread the ideas that resonated most with you and plant seeds in others. Think about ways you can get involved to expand on those ideas and bring about change in your own life as well as in others.