Your Story
As a woman leader you have a unique and compelling story to share. Honing that story; owning that story and communicating it effectively is extremely important for your career progression. And yet, I find so many women leaders struggle to do so. Failing to communicate your value and contribution can impact not only your visibility, but also your opportunities for promotion and growth. Doing so enables you to connect authentically with others and showcase your value.
What is your STORY? This is an acronym I use when helping a woman leader discover her leadership story — that personal and professional path she has taken which highlights challenges, pivotal moments, and growth experiences as well as the gifts those experiences have given her to share with her world.? ?
It’s my take on the hero’s journey, adapted for women leaders.
STORY stands for?
You are the heroine of your story, which has three Scenes: the first is from ordinary to loss; the second from loss to insight and the third from insight to your gift.?
In charting out your STORY, you go first, from ordinary to loss. Identify the villains/antagonists and ordeal or challenges you faced, and how this left you at a loss (or having lost). Your journey then takes you through further challenges to meet your ‘guru’ — the person who helps you gain? the insights you need. In the final scene, you overcome yet further challenges/ordeals, and come back with your gift.
From this you can derive the vision for the impact you and only you can make and begin to share the story and your vision with others.
Storytelling is ancient. It speaks to us in a very powerful and personal way, so bring your story to life. Use sensory language and keep it in the present tense. Share real experiences, especially those that express your values, and how they shaped you and your leadership abilities. Highlight accomplishments that demonstrate your strengths as a leader.?
It is only through sharing your story that you begin to hone it, make it even more relatable and compelling.? Initially, share it with a few trusted friends and colleagues and ask for feedback on how it comes across: Is it inspiring? Does it reflect your strengths clearly? Are there parts that could be more concise or engaging??
Adapt it based on their feedback. Tailor your story depending on who you’re speaking to. Different aspects of your journey may resonate more with different groups, such as investors, team members, or industry peers.
Remember, a well crafted leadership story strengthens your influence. It enhances your visibility. A cohesive story makes it easier for others to remember and share who you are and what you stand for. It inspires others. Storytelling is powerful in creating relatability and motivating others.
Importantly, it positions you as a thought leader. A strong narrative helps solidify your role as a respected voice in your field.
Keep it relevant and up to date. Your story will evolve as your career progresses, so revisit your story periodically to reflect new achievements and shifts in your vision.? Acknowledge both your accomplishments and your challenges, showing how you’ve grown and adapted. This balance will do much to make your story even more compelling.
Your story does more than highlight your professional background and expertise. It conveys your purpose, the impact you aspire to make and the values that guide you. Ultimately, it is these that make your story both memorable and compelling.
What is your STORY?
Almira