How do you create a shared story in your presentation?

1 Know your goal

Before you start writing your story, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your presentation. What is your main point? What do you want your audience to remember, feel, or do after hearing your story? Having a specific and measurable goal will help you focus your story and make it relevant and impactful.

2 Know your audience

Another key element of creating a shared story is knowing who you are talking to. Who are your listeners? What are their needs, interests, challenges, and values? How can you relate to them and address their concerns or questions? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your story to their perspective and expectations, and create a rapport and trust with them.

3 Know your context

The third factor to consider when creating a shared story is the context of your presentation. Where and when are you delivering your story? What is the occasion, format, and tone of your presentation? How much time do you have? How can you adapt your story to fit the situation and the environment? Knowing your context will help you choose the appropriate style, language, and structure for your story.

4 Use a simple structure

A shared story needs a clear and simple structure that guides your audience through your narrative. A common and effective structure is the three-act model, which consists of a beginning, a middle, and an end. The beginning sets the scene, introduces the characters, and establishes the problem or challenge. The middle shows the conflict, the obstacles, and the actions taken to overcome them. The end reveals the outcome, the resolution, and the lesson learned.

5 Use sensory details

A shared story needs to appeal to the senses of your audience, not just their logic. Use vivid and descriptive language that helps them imagine, feel, and experience your story. Use metaphors, analogies, examples, and anecdotes that illustrate your points and make them memorable. Use gestures, expressions, and voice modulation to enhance your delivery and convey your emotions.

6 Use a call to action

A shared story needs to inspire your audience to take action or change their behavior. Use a call to action at the end of your story that summarizes your main message, reinforces your goal, and motivates your listeners to act. Make your call to action clear, specific, and achievable. Tell them what you want them to do, why they should do it, and how they can do it.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?