How can you use storytelling to persuade without being preachy?

When telling a story, make sure you know your goal. A goal can answer this question: at the end of the story, what do you want your listener to know, think or do? Ask yourself the following questions after selecting the story: -Why am I sharing this story? -What is the point of the story? -Why is this relevant to you (the listener)? Also, when telling a story, it's good to be clear about the story. A story can be framed in so many ways, but having clarity on the intention and point of the story can go far in so many ways. It can help set a clear trajectory of the story, you know where to start and where to end and what the notes are to hit the story.

Study comedians. Effective storytelling shares a common thread with successful humor. Comedians employ techniques that foster audience engagement. One such technique is delivering the punchline before the joke's setup. My exploration and study of comedians' methods have enriched my storytelling prowess. I've applied these learned techniques when narrating stories on stage to captivate and connect with my audience.

Have clarity on WHY before WHAT. You need to know your audience's needs. Give your audience a reason to connect with you, find a common theme, or something that strikes a chord with the audience. Knowing what you are doing makes the task easier and helps you structure your thoughts.

An approach I rarely see use is to level set the audience before engaging in the topic. Using a quote, question, startling fact, or humor tied to the presentation's main purpose works well to get people on the same page. I find the audience engages with an expectancy of what to expect and what's to come throughout. And of course, a conclusion that empowers their confidence that change is not only possible but absolutely probable.

Storytelling? It's akin to saying, 'Let me share something amazing.' But before you leap in, consider why. What's your aim? It's like a road trip without a destination—fun, yet potentially lost. Your storytelling purpose is your guiding star. Do you seek laughter, and tears, or to promote a banana slicer for perfect bites? Clarity is your best friend. Are you here to inspire, provoke, or simply entertain? Your stories are journeys. Buckle up, fellow storytellers. Let's venture into laughter, tears, and perhaps even the odd cucumber. Always know your purpose, unless you fancy confusing folks with banana slicers!

Audiences are seldom uniform in their understanding. Therefore, I've discovered the significance of segmenting your audience into three categories: those ahead, those alongside, and those trailing behind. Organize your presentation into distinct segments and reiterate key takeaways in three different ways. Each repetition serves to connect with one of the three segments of your audience: one to engage those who are ahead, another for those in step with you, and a third to bring along those who may be lagging behind. This strategic repetition, tailored to each audience segment, enhances comprehension and engagement.

Knowing your audience is like picking the right flavor of ice cream on a hot day - it's essential! Who are these folks? What do they dig, believe, and crave? Are they newbies in your topic's jungle or old hands? And how open are they to your wild ideas? It's like serving tacos at a vegan convention – it won't fly. So, knowing your audience is the secret sauce. Tailor your story to their tastes, tickle their emotions, and pre-empt their objections. It's the magic wand to weave tales that hit the sweet spot. Don't be the ice cream vendor with no clue; know your audience and serve up stories that sizzle!

Know your audience. Do a thorough research on the audience that you going to address. Try to know the demographics, culture and customs before you craft your speech. You don't want to hurt your audience unintentionally. Knowing your audience helps you to connect with them on a personal level during your speech. Your storytelling would become effective and powerful.

An exceptional story lingers in memory. From my experience, the stories that truly resonate when I share them on stage possess three distinct qualities. Firstly, they feature a character or an object with a straightforward name, as simplicity sticks in people's minds. Secondly, these stories incorporate compelling visuals, as impactful imagery tends to be unforgettable. Lastly, they contain an element that leaves the audience eager to share the tale with others. People tend to remember and recount stories that they can't wait to pass along.

A personal story always helps in this case. You would be able to hold the attention of your audience as you advance in your story. If you are trying to emphasise a point and then relate it with a personal experience, it can work wonders for your listeners. They will form a mental image of the speaker (you) going through the story as you speak them. Wonderful! Isn't it?

Picking the right story is like choosing the right outfit for a date - it's got to match! Your story needs to be the Batman to your Gotham City – relevant, supportive, and unforgettable. Forget stories that are as vague as a ghost in the fog; go for tales as clear as day, ones that stick like gum on a shoe. Think specific, not abstract, and make it as personal as your secret cookie stash. Remember, the right story can be your superhero cape in the world of storytelling!

El storytelling consiste, para decirlo sumariamente, en una técnica discursiva que cuenta historias para ilustrar ideas abstractas e inducir determinadas acciones en el auditorio. La técnica es tan vieja como la Humanidad. Desde las cavernas, alrededor del fuego, los primeros homo sapiens con habla contaban ya las historias más atractivas y garantizaban la transmisión oral de la tradición de la tribu. Las historias sufí, los cuentos zen, indios, las leyendas mesoamericanas, los cuentos de Andersen, etc, son la base del storytelling. La técnica se ha perfeccionado hoy como nunca y no es casual que sea en la tierra de Holywood donde se aplique mejor a la oratoria política la técnica del storytelling.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. A simple Intro-Body-Conclusion can work wonders when you want your audience to understand your point effectively. Similarly, the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action and Result) is a powerful tool to shape your story. Give it a try!

Think of your story like a recipe: it needs a simple structure, not a kitchen sink! Picture it as a three-course meal: an appetizer (setup), the main dish (conflict), and a dessert (resolution). Start by introducing your characters, setting the scene, and the situation - it's the "Let's get cooking!" moment. Then, spice things up with a conflict - the part where everything goes haywire in the kitchen. Will the soufflé rise or flop? Finally, serve up a resolution - how they save the soufflé, and maybe even discover a secret ingredient. Keep it simple, and your story will be as satisfying as a three-course meal with a side of laughter!

The Hero's Journey a book by Joseph Campbell a great read to understand the basic principle of a great script. A presentation is a performance for the audience to see themselves as the hero of the conflict, pain, or problems that can be applied to deliver an enlightening and inspiring experience.

From my experience at least in Singapore, one challenge lies in children being conditioned to simply "tell" a story, recounting it for the sake of doing so. Consequently, as they grow older, coaxing them to demonstrate, rather than simply narrate, becomes quite the task. . One approach involves immersing the audience in your stories, drawing them into the vivid picture you paint and the people you have therein (if applicable). Accompanying this, asking a plethora of questions proves paramount. . The crux of the matter does not revolve around you simply telling or showing a story but rather centers on the audience themselves. Allow them to experience the journey with you, evoking genuine emotions.

Storytelling is more of emotions than simply "telling"! There should be a proper use of tone, facial expressions and most importantly feeling that your voice conveys. Mere words are never enough. You need your story to be effective. Feel as you speak, live your story and each moment of it as you convey the same to your listeners.

"Show, don't tell" in storytelling is like seasoning in cooking - you don't want to overdo it! Spice up your story with sensory details, action, and emotion. It's like adding a pinch of magic to your tale, not a bucket of glitter. Don't be the know-it-all tour guide; let your audience explore. Instead of saying, "The cake was delicious," describe the moist cake layers, the velvety chocolate, and the sweet aroma that wafted through the air. Let your audience drool on their own! Remember, a story is like a good joke - it's better when the audience gets the punchline themselves. So, show 'em, don't tell 'em, and let the magic happen!

Las características principales del Estilo Zen en oratoria pueden resumirse en a) simplicidad, b) elegancia, c) sugerir más que describir lo obvio, d) naturalidad, e) espacios vacíos, f) estilo y tranquilidad y g) eliminación de lo no esencial. La escena y la pantalla están totalmente vacías mientras cuenta sus historias. De esta manera, cuando el mensaje escrito o las imágenes aparecen tienen mucha más fuerza. Para muchos oradores la idea de una pantalla vacía es aterradora. Por supuesto, se sompensa ese vacío con una presencia, simpatía, un saber ocupar el espacio. El permanente movimiento en la escena lanzando un mensaje corporal de tranquilidad, estilo y dominio de sí mismo y del espacio resultaba más que suficiente.

In addition to all the other very pertinent and relevant points here, this one is critical for a good story teller and a good story. It must not be boastful and self-glorifying. In fact, if it is self-depreciating or illustrates a personal flaw, it often sticks better with the audience. And, if it has some humor, even better. But, it must be authentic, real and from the heart, illustrating the point you’re trying to make, or giving an example of how-to, or how-not-to. But, keep it real, keep it you.

In my experience bringing your whole self to the story, being brutally honest and sharing the goods and the bads, goes a long away. Speak from the heart, be vulnerable, and enjoy the ride!

Be yourself. Don't try to overstate. Bragging/showing off will give a rude perception of yours. You want your audience to build a connection, not the other way around. Being your authentic self helps the audience to know the real you. Your genuine story would be more appreciated and loved by your audience.

Authenticity stands as a paramount virtue on stage, yet its conveyance to the audience comes with nuances. There are three ways to transmit authenticity, each with potential pitfalls. Firstly, vulnerability is potent, but excessive vulnerability may signal a lack of confidence. Secondly, humor adds depth, but excessive levity might imply a lack of seriousness. Thirdly, the occasional fumble or mistake can humanize you, yet too many errors can brand you as unprepared. Perfection and authenticity stand at opposing ends. Exceptional speeches embody authenticity, not flawlessness. Imperfections lend sincerity to your presentation, forging a genuine connection with your audience.

Many often wonder how to embody authenticity and humility. Allow me to share what I've learned from my teacher, Larry Gilman, in the Mastery of Self-Expression. When speaking, take your time to ensure every word resonates with impact. Maintain a genuine connection by making eye contact with your audience. Remember, words alone only account for 7% of our communication. It is through non-verbal cues that authenticity truly takes shape. With that said, I am delighted to pass on the invaluable wisdom I have gained from Larry.

"The most personal is the most creative." Yes, the best way to tell a story without being preachy is to narrate one from your personal experience. If it excites you enough to share with utmost honesty, it will certainly connect with your audience. The best way to end a story is to leave the audience with an open thought, that compels them to think. And if that thought commensurates with the objective, it will surely convey the message. One should never emphasize the moral. If your audience couldn't get the purpose, then you should try to change the way you tell a story, not the audience.

In crafting a compelling presentation, I've discovered the potency of establishing personal connections within the audience. My approach involves striking a balance between addressing the entire room and connecting with specific individuals, tables, or sections. Shifting your focus throughout the presentation maintains engagement. It's essential not to exclusively address the entire room continuously, nor should you excessively jump from one group to another. Instead, varying your approach introduces a fresh dynamic that transforms the experience from being addressed to being actively engaged in a conversation with the audience.