Look Who it Was Random video

How business can tap into all of our special needs | David Lancefield | TEDxUCL

1,725 views · Published 21 January 2015 · 18:23 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2015 · Nonprofits & Activism

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This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. All of us have special needs at work, based on our aspirations and abilities. But few leaders in business tap in to them. They scratch at the surface of the potential around them in the rush to deliver the next project, product or set of financial results. It's time for a change. Imagine the power of everyone answering two simple questions: 'who am I'? and 'what can I give'? David shares his own story from working with leaders, and looking after a son with special needs.

I'm a father to Sachin and husband to Saloni, born and bred in Dorset. 

As a consultant I try hard to blend analytical rigour, creativity and a human touch in everything I do. With grounding in science - maths and economics - and with real life experience of psychology, I work with organisations and individuals to tap into their full potential. My style has been described as bringing ‘confidence with humility’ to interactions - confident that I can work to deliver results, whilst humble to know that every situation, and every day, throws up new perspectives and new challenges. In practice, this means listening attentively, asking the right questions and providing distinctive insight.

I'm a partner at PwC, leading the global economics practice and our work on strategic engagement with organisations we work with; I'm leading a campaign on building a greater understanding on how the collisions between the megatrends can fuel higher performance at a personal and corporate level. Over the last 18 years I've worked in 30 countries. My views have been published in the Financial Times, CNN, the BBC and other media channels.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

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