Do you like stories? I do, rather it is a book, movie, profound speaker, campfire stories, or the “no shit there I was” stories a good story draws me in. When I think about my learning or growth experiences, the best ones involve stories. Good stories can spark curiosity and increase learning but what makes a story good or retellable? In essence, a story is a problem approached in an interesting way that takes us on a journey of discovery. A good story has twists and turns that draw us in guided by the teller enabling us to gain a new understanding. A story starts with a framework of Beginning, Middle, and End, each a pivot to get the listener to the desired understanding. The stories we tell should be our own, when you find your story, you reveal who you are, and why you do what you do and that’s a good story. There are three types of stories: those that tell where you come which can be your most impactful leadership stories, those that say where you are and your successes, and those that tell where you are going that rally participation and encourages bold action.
As an Emergency Manager being a good storyteller can be beneficial in gaining buy-in from stakeholders and partners. If we can convey our “why” in the form of a story it may resonate a little deeper with our policymakers and stakeholders giving us greater influence on their decision-making. Telling stories about preparedness may spark more curiosity in our community members and inspire action versus our standard information campaigns. As instructors’ storytelling may give lessons more meaning and greater reach if our stories are retellable. Storytelling can be a good tool to have in our toolbox, one that I am going to work on developing for myself. So, what’s your story?
Take Aways
Storytelling conveys lessons and problems in a more interesting way that sticks with the recipient a lot longer. The more you can relate to your audience the more effective your story will be. you can incorporate your stories as often as possible, and your message will be better received.
Being a good storyteller takes practice, take time to develop your story the practice telling it often.
Emergency Managers should incorporate stories into our messaging and take the time to listen to the stories of our communities.
Stories are the oldest and most effective way of communicating. They are interesting and draw the listener into a journey of discovery.