Telling a good yarn can help you win over a colleague, a team, an executive, a recruiter or a large conference room. But what does that look like?
The best stories don’t just communicate information or elicit an emotional reaction — they’re also a tool to persuade and motivate people.
- So start by contextualizing your story, tying it back to the case you’re trying to make. Tailor it to the needs of your audience: Speak to their specific anxieties or concerns, and avoid bland platitudes that could apply to anyone.
- Be clear about what you want them to do. If you give your audience practical advice and direction, you empower them to take action and make your story their own.
- Finally, stay humble. Don’t be afraid to share stories of failure, moments of weaknesses, or times you needed help from others. Genuine humility shows you have the capacity for growth and learning, which everyone can relate to.
Of course, telling a good story takes practice — but done well, it will help build credibility for yourself and your ideas.
Harvard Business Review
