“A true
storyteller believes in what they are sharing and what they are doing. When you listen to others and learn about their
stories, you are better able to develop a more fruitful relationship with a
client.” – Ssusan Forte O’Neill
We all love a good
story. In fact, we’ve been telling stories for centuries – long before the
written word. Yet, today, I am hard pressed to find individuals who can tell their
story. Why is it such an important skill? Being
a good storyteller is good for business.
Whether it is your
company or you’re an employee moving up the ranks, you should know the company
story by rote. It should roll off your tongue. Practice it regularly – along
with your own story. You never know when, but you will inevitably be called
upon to succinctly, charismatically describe yourself and/or your work. Are you
able to do this in a room full of people, and captivate them, just as our
elders did seated around a camp fire?
1) Know your product
and know your product’s story.
2) Believe in
what you do. When you don’t believe it what you do, telling your story is
difficult.
3) Telling a story, genuinely, triggers empathy. Eloquence, creativity and critical-thinking are
audible and translate positively—and immediately—in any presentation. The more
you practice, the more you recognize the cues that others are engaging with,
and relating to, what you are trying to communicate.
4 ) Prepare &
listen. If you are meeting a new client, always, always, always do your homework.
Learn as much as you can about their story. And, when you are there, in front
of them, ask them to tell it to you, and listen. Really listen. You are establishing a relationship whenever
you engage with anyone – be it a room full of people or during a one-on-one
meeting.
