People have an infatuation with stories.
The recent Manti Te’o situation once again proves that. People love a good story. If it’s heartwarming, it’s even better.
We all have a story. We are stories. We have things that happen to us and those around us that are great stories to tell. Whether those stories be sad, funny, crazy, or just plain weird, those around us usually love hearing them.
There’s just something about the personal touch of a personal story. In a sermon. In a speech. In a blog. In everyday conversation.
People respond to stories.
In fact, telling personal stories may be the fastest way to build influence with those people around us. We suddenly find common ground with anyone. We seem vulnerable.
Here are 2 story telling tips…
1. Don’t waste their time.
Stories are powerful, but lose their punch if we get caught up in minute details that have nothing to do with the main point of the story. Streamline the story. Sure, tell the story with enough detail to not miss the sincerity, but leave out the picky details.
2. Make sure it’s going somewhere.
Know where the end of the story is. Know the point you’re trying to make. If not, you end up circling back around in your story and losing its effectiveness. Know where you’re going.
Don’t get me wrong. You or I should never manipulate anyone. We should certainly never lie. But, we do have a duty to build relationships and lead people. Stories are a great bridge for that.
What about you? Any story telling tips?
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