How can you use storytelling to build relationships in virtual teams?

1 Choose your stories wisely

Not every story is suitable for a virtual team setting. You want to choose stories that are relevant, engaging, and appropriate for your audience and purpose. For example, you can use stories to introduce yourself, to illustrate a point, to provide feedback, or to celebrate a success. Avoid stories that are too personal, too long, too negative, or too controversial. You also want to balance your storytelling with listening and asking questions, so that you don't dominate the conversation or bore your teammates.

2 Adapt your storytelling style

Different virtual platforms and formats may require different storytelling styles. For example, if you are using video conferencing, you can use your body language, facial expressions, and voice tone to enhance your story. If you are using text-based communication, you may need to use more descriptive language, emojis, or images to convey your message. If you are using audio-only communication, you may need to use more pauses, intonation, and sound effects to keep your listeners' attention. You also need to consider the time zone, culture, and language of your teammates, and adjust your storytelling accordingly.

3 Invite feedback and interaction

Storytelling is not a one-way communication. You want to invite feedback and interaction from your teammates, and show that you are interested in their stories as well. You can do this by asking open-ended questions, giving positive comments, or relating your own stories to theirs. You can also use storytelling as a way to solicit feedback and input from your teammates, by asking them to share their opinions, perspectives, or experiences on a topic. This can help you create a more collaborative and inclusive team environment.

5 Practice and improve your storytelling skills

Storytelling is a skill that can be improved with practice and feedback. You can practice your storytelling skills by rehearsing your stories before you share them with your teammates, by recording yourself and listening to your performance, or by asking a friend or a colleague for feedback. You can also improve your storytelling skills by reading, watching, or listening to other storytellers, and learning from their techniques, styles, and strategies. You can also join online storytelling communities or events, and exchange stories with other people from different backgrounds and contexts.

Storytelling is a powerful and versatile communication tool that can help you build relationships in virtual teams. By using storytelling, you can share your personality, values, and emotions with your teammates, and create a sense of connection and empathy. You can also use storytelling to engage, inform, and influence your teammates, and create a positive team culture. Storytelling can help you overcome the challenges and leverage the opportunities of working in virtual teams.