Increase Business With Storytelling

A common complaint entrepreneurs have is dissatisfaction with the amount of media coverage their business is getting. They have beautifully-crafted press kits, plenty of media contacts, and have practiced mock interviews countless times in front of the mirror. The ingredient they are most often missing is a relevant, timely and compelling pitch. If you take nothing else away from this article, understand that the one element that will always land you media coverage is having a great story. But let’s not stop there. Storytelling is also a great way to tug the heartstrings of prospective clients. Stories humanize often impersonal marketing collateral, websites and product packaging. Stories help us form a stronger connection with others – both professionally and personally. Are you convinced that stories are a great strategy for your business? Follow these simple steps to craft stories that will captivate and motivate your audience. 

Start a Story Journal

Trigger your memory to remember your stories by holding frequent brainstorming sessions. Keep a regular journal, jotting down specific instances that made an impact on your life.  

Don’t Stop at One Story

One story is never enough. You will need different stories for sales meetings, networking events and media interviews. Choose the stories that will resonate most with a specific audience.  

Share Someone Else’s Story

Many entrepreneurs feel uncomfortable revealing their personal stories. Until you feel comfortable opening up, use customer testimonials to illustrate your point.  

Tell a Better Story

Any story can be interesting - it’s all in the way you tell it. Stories should be wrought with specific details. Think about the colors, the mood, and creating the visual. They should also have emotion. It’s not about what happened but how it made you feel when it was happening. Lastly, mention the other people, or characters, that make up your story. How did they contribute to what happened?  

Practice Clear, Concise Storytelling

Challenge yourself to tell stories in 30-seconds or less. This is the amount of time you will have to pitch a reporter or grab a prospect’s attention. Practice with your personal storytelling advisory board comprised of family, friends, business associates or anyone whose opinion you trust. 

Mom entrepreneurs are launching new businesses every day. How can you stand out from the pack? Simply by sharing your unique stories.