Importance of Being a Good Storyteller in Business Highlighted by New Find the Edge Article
Manchester (PRWEB UK) 3 July 2013 -- Business leaders should work on their storytelling abilities in order to engage audiences more effectively and get their messages across, Andrew Thorp has said in a new Find the Edge article.
He uses the post to explain the role storytelling can have in business, and highlight some great examples of its effectiveness.
Thorp said: "Think of Steve Jobs, Richard Branson or Anita Roddick. As the public faces of their businesses, we’ve all seen them champion their cause, represent their brand, and continually relate and reinforce their company’s ‘story’ – often using ‘mini-stories’ drawn from their personal vault.
"Of course, not every leader is naturally evangelical, but all leaders can develop the art of storytelling as a way to engage their audience. We know that stories connect with people on a deeper, emotional level, and this is critical for influencing the behaviour of others."
He explains how stories can create a personal connection, why some – but not too much – detail is required, and why practice is essential in order to become an effective storyteller.
Thorp also highlights the role humour can play in building rapport and connections.
He said: "Judicious use of humour is a great way to win over an audience. I say judicious because if it’s a weak joke, or a gentle poke at the audience, it can misfire badly.
"Far better to poke fun at yourself, and perhaps relate an experience where you messed up or embarrassed yourself.
"This effectively lowers your status, humanises you, and warms you to the audience. But of course you’re a leader, so you have to re-establish your status with some profound insights, or an inspiring story."
The full story can be read here: http://www.findtheedge.co.uk/leadership/communication/how-to-turn-a-leader-into-a-storyteller.
This is Andrew Thorp's first Find the Edge contribution. He is an expert on the practical applications of storytelling, and runs his own company called MojoLife. More about him can be found here: http://www.findtheedge.co.uk/expert-panelist/andrew-thorp.
Kenny Goodman, founder of Find the Edge, said: "Everyone loves a good story, but we often underestimate the true practical value of our tales and anecdotes.
"Andrew gives a great explanation as to why stories are so important, illustrated with clear examples."
Find the Edge features content submitted by an expert panel of UK business leaders.
Kenny Goodman, Find the Edge, http://www.FindTheEdge.co.uk, 07540 368 439 0161 713 2506, [email protected]
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