What are some effective strategies for iterating on your storytelling?

2 Data from your metrics

Another important source of information for iterating on your storytelling is the data from your key metrics. Depending on your goals and channels, you may want to measure different aspects of your storytelling, such as reach, engagement, conversion, retention, or referrals. These metrics can help you quantify the impact of your story on your audience, and test different hypotheses and variations. For example, you can use A/B testing to compare different headlines, images, or calls to action, and see which ones perform better. You can also use cohort analysis to track how your story affects the behavior and loyalty of different segments of your audience over time.

3 Experimentation with your format

A third strategy for iterating on your storytelling is to experiment with different formats and styles. Sometimes, the way you tell your story can make a big difference in how it resonates with your audience. You may want to try different mediums, such as text, audio, video, or interactive elements, and see which ones suit your message and your audience better. You may also want to try different approaches, such as using humor, emotion, or storytelling techniques, such as the hero's journey, the problem-solution, or the before-after. By experimenting with different formats, you can discover new ways to captivate and persuade your audience, and refine your storytelling skills.

4 Feedback from your peers

A fourth strategy for iterating on your storytelling is to get feedback from your peers. Sometimes, you may be too close to your story, and miss some flaws or opportunities that others can spot. You can benefit from the perspective and expertise of other founders, mentors, advisors, or experts in your field, who can offer you constructive criticism and valuable advice. You can seek feedback from your peers by joining communities, forums, or groups related to your industry or niche, or by participating in events, such as pitch competitions, hackathons, or workshops. By getting feedback from your peers, you can learn from their experience and insights, and improve your storytelling.

5 Feedback from yourself

A fifth strategy for iterating on your storytelling is to get feedback from yourself. This means that you need to be honest and critical with your own story, and evaluate it objectively and systematically. You can use various tools and frameworks to help you with this, such as the Story Canvas, the Story Spine, or the Story Circle. These tools can help you structure your story, and check if it has all the essential elements, such as a clear goal, a compelling conflict, a satisfying resolution, and a strong takeaway. By getting feedback from yourself, you can polish your story, and make sure it aligns with your purpose and your audience.

6 Iteration as a habit

The final strategy for iterating on your storytelling is to make it a habit. Iteration is not a one-time thing, but a continuous cycle of testing, learning, and improving. You should always be open to feedback, data, and experimentation, and use them to refine and update your story. You should also keep track of your progress, and celebrate your achievements and learnings. By making iteration a habit, you can keep your story fresh, relevant, and effective, and grow your startup.