Why not tell a story?

For our next ‘Why Not?’ Wednesday series, we’ll be highlighting the power of storytelling to boost your business development.

Storytelling can sound like a bit of a wishy-washy concept in professional services, when we’re so often focused on evidence and numbers. Yet when a client or contact is faced with a PowerPoint full of data, effective storytelling can bring this information to life in a memorable way.

Sheryl Sandberg?started a storytelling movement?with her book?Lean In?– she reminds us that stories, rather than data points, have the power to create change. The?benefits of storytelling?in a professional context include increasing your credibility, growing your influence, and being a more inspiring leader.

To keep your audience engaged, a good business story should include these elements:

• Plot – make it clear how you or your firm’s actions have created positive outcomes.
• Character – the central character in your story should be the client themselves, or someone they can easily relate to.
• Emotion – everyone wants to be happier and less stressed at work, so it’s important to include these emotional drivers.

Keep an eye on your inbox throughout July for tips to help you tell more compelling stories.

“Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world.”?– Robert McKee

Originally published here: https://thebdconsultancy.com/useful-resources/why-not-tell-a-story/