How to Improve Your Ability to Tell Stories That Persuade

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Here is another valuable Management Tip of the Day from Harvard Business Review. To sign up for a free subscription to any/all HBR newsletters, please click here.

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If you want to convince someone to support your project, explain to an employee how he might improve, or inspire a team that’s struggling, you need to be able to tell a persuasive, compelling story.

o Start by asking yourself: Who is my audience and what is the message I want to share?

o Next, look to your own life experiences for any anecdotes that highlight struggle, failure, or success that might resonate with listeners – but don’t try to make yourself the star.

o The ultimate focus should be on people you know, lessons you’ve learned, or events you’ve witnessed. You could even make the audience play a role – they’ll be more engaged and willing to buy in to your message.

o Keep it simple and straightforward, with just a few key details. And don’t forget to practice.

Adapted from “How to Tell a Great Story” by Carolyn O’Hara.

To check out that resource and join the discussion, please click here.

Also, you may wish to check out an anthology, Management Tips from Harvard Business Review, by clicking here.

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