Telling Your Story – Why it Matters

A recent New York Times front-page article speaks about “Baring a Bit of Your Soul to Connect with Voters.” The premise is that a highly personal touch in story-telling “… can help to spread a candidate’s story in a way that…can inspire donations.” Unlike typical advertisements, candidates share not only their definitions of leadership, but also their beliefs, their experiences and their pain. These videos are so effective because candidates come across with authenticity and credibility.

In this world of exploding social media and competing priorities, how do YOU make a difference?

No doubt you have a great product or service, but so do your competitors. You check out their websites, follow on Facebook and LinkedIn, listen to their presentations -- and you find that many of the features and benefits are virtually the same as yours.

How do YOU make a difference? What is YOUR context that makes what you do and who you are unique? What story can YOU tell that makes a difference?

We have worked with thousands of executives who give presentations to community groups, senior officials and investors. Those whose stories captured the audience’s attention -- made them laugh, even cry -- were those stories delivered sincerely and passionately.

To help you accomplish this we suggest that you first take some time to think through and write out your responses to the five key points below. Next, video tape yourself sharing your story, then get meaningful feedback.

1.   Defining You & How You Make a Difference: Tell us who you are, what you do, why you do it and how that makes a difference.

2.   Identifying Context: How do your relationships, experiences, and beliefs manifest in your work?

3.   Sharing Values: How do your values, e.g., commitment to excellence, development, reliability, etc., make a difference to the people you serve?

4.   Giving Passionate Illustrations: What challenges have you experienced that helped to shape who you are and the services and products you provide? Be specific. Be vulnerable.

5.   Being Yourself: Coaching and practice will enable you define a persona that is real and will allow you to emotionally connect with your audience.

For more information on how we can help you create your story click here.