Fact: Inspiring leaders tell great stories. But is there a formula to it? And can we apply the same techniques used by television and film experts? The answer is, yes! Read our five tips for creating exciting, engaging and motivating anecdotes that are sure to be a hit.
Nothing captures emotions like stories do. They offer a route to the heart that numbers and charts just can’t traverse.
It’s no surprise then that leaders use stories to translate abstract concepts into meaningful directives. After all, emotional connection is vital in persuading action, communicating values, inspiring teamwork, sharing knowledge and addressing challenges.
There’s a story in almost everything, but that doesn’t mean good stories come easily. Like the best TV shows or movies, great stories have formulas. The right mix can transform your storytelling from ordinary to legendary.
Here are our five tips for creating a powerful story:
1. Make it relevant
Assure your audience of a meaningful narrative. Pixar’s Andrew Stanton calls it the "promise that propels listeners to the end, the thing that makes them care." The most entertaining story, if irrelevant, means nothing to your listeners.
2. Be real Audiences carry biases, so keeping it real matters. Experiences, perceptions and beliefs influence how listeners receive your story. As actor and writer Ricky Gervais says, “Trying to make the ordinary extraordinary is so much better… because [extraordinary] doesn’t connect.” Be convincing by using scenes, characters and situations that come from real life.
3. Keep it simple Great stories don’t have to be long or complicated. A catchy, well-crafted anecdote can take just two to four minutes to deliver. That’s why Jerry Seinfeld edits relentlessly—counting syllables just to get the length of his jokes right. He knows that lengthy punchlines don’t get laughs.
4. Build it up
However, short doesn’t have to equal bland. Inject interest by varying your pace and introducing pauses at crucial moments of your delivery. Build up anticipation for the most exciting points by not giving these away at the start. Create some drama and let your audience anticipate the ending.
5. Finish strong
Think of the satisfaction that comes after a great movie ending. Craft a similar experience at the end of your story. Reinforce your main point, solve the problem, bring out the big reveal. As Seinfeld says, “The biggest laugh has to be at the end.”
Now you know how to turn business stories into epics: make them relevant, realistic, concise and exciting. Close with a solid ending and your story will stick long after the last line!
About Victoria
Victoria believes that great communication has the power to change the world. She's passionate about helping organisations to lift their profiles, inspire action and achieve remarkable results by crafting and delivering their stories and messages in a clear, compelling and persuasive way. If you've got a question about how to produce high-quality communication plans or content, you can contact Victoria here or connect with her on LinkedIn.