March 2017

How to Lead Through Storytelling

Learn how to motivate and inspire more effectively with these tips

Being a great storyteller is one of the most effective ways to lead. From politicians to business leaders, the best storytellers rely on a mixture of strategy, knowledge and skill to motivate their audience and inspire them to trust in their vision. Focus on these key areas to become a better storyteller and leader:

• Show, don’t tell – A story’s power lies in the details. Help your audience connect with your message by using specific descriptions that allow them to step inside and imagine the story for themselves.
• Be spontaneous – When a story or speech is completely scripted, you’ll tend to read instead of perform, and your delivery will suffer. Practice telling your story with less emphasis on the script and focus on melding your heart, soul and voice into a singular, powerful delivery.
• Use an emotional appeal – Logic can be a powerful tool in influencing a person to trust in your vision. However, appealing to emotion is equally important in winning over an audience and is perhaps even more influential than logic. Look for ways your story can tap into emotions that might resonate with your listeners.
• Stray from your performance comfort zone – The more you’re used to speaking or performing in front of others, the more comfortable you will be doing it. Try theater (or Table Topics®) to help you build confidence and improve your ability to win over an audience.
• Harness the power of your voice – How fast you speak, your intonation and your word choice provide nearly endless options for how you approach your delivery. Great storytellers select a way to use their voice to emphasize and reinforce their message.

Remember, simply telling a story isn’t enough. Use these strategies to help your audience visualize your common goal, the plan to achieve it and—most importantly—why they should care.

• How Passionate Storytelling Makes a Message Unforgettable
• Toastmasters Act Out
• How to Use Storytelling as a Leadership Tool