Great storytelling is crucial for a great presentation. Without a story, people quickly forget your message. Our brains are wired for stories. And stories help us remember the message.
But storytelling is not easy. Here are three tips to get you started on better storytelling in business.
Always know WHY you tell a story.
This is where you start. You tell a story to prove a point, to illustrate a point. Make sure the point is clear. And the story will support the point you want to make.
Don’t forget the people
No people, no story. Stories always have (identifiable) CHARACTERS in them. You’d be surprised how often people forget to include actual people in the story flow of their business presentation. We are people, and we relate to others’ challenges and adventures.
Sometimes storytelling can be as simple as describing a SCENARIO of how changes will play out in the audience’s daily life. Make what you say TANGIBLE and RELATABLE.
Add and specify the significant moment
An effective story has a special moment. The ‘but one day….’ moment from ‘once upon a time’. This refers to a specific point in space, time or circumstance that sets the story apart from the rest of our existence.
Bonus tip: Simplified storytelling
Sometimes, using a METAPHOR OR ANALOGY is enough to make your presentation stick.
For example: use the weather as a metaphor for unpredictability.
Best of luck with these tips!
Get in touch if you want to add impactful storytelling to your next business presentation.
What a client said:
“I want to thank you for the major positive impact your training has had on my presentation and communication skills over the past few years. My storytelling has become much more effective, thanks to the work we did on the ‘fridge’ story. Thank you very much for this – and for the very impactful refresher session the other day!”