I work hard to get a message across. I try to be creative, make my content appeal to my target audience, layer information, use different channels and subscribe to the “rule of three”. However I do tend to overlook the power of a story well told despite my own story and its telling on a regular basis being an integral part of who I am and continue to be today.
It was good to be reminded at a recent workshop of the essential elements of a story. A start, a middle, an end, petrhaps a sub-plot, a bit of sparkle, some emotion and a touch of humour. All told in an authentic voice, with passion, with respect and with commitment.
From a psychological point of view, it’s not surprising that this works. Carl Rogers talks about the core conditions of: congruence, empathy and unconditional positive regard, which together make the magic happen. One person is able to recognise their truth and tell their story whilst the other is able to hear what is said and show that they have heard.
Over the coming months, as I put together communication plans and strategies or simply try to get a message across, I’m going to make a concious effort to include story telling and as I go about my day listen for and to the stories of others.
Interspiral 