How do you inspire more people with engaging personal stories?
Yesterday, I heard an unbelievably moving and inspiring story.
Like all good stories, it kick-started my thinking while reaching deep down into my emotions.
This was a client’s story. And though I coached her to help polish her delivery skills, she enthralled the audience by telling her story so well.
It was a reminder to me of the power of personal stories.
“Stories have to be told or they die, and when they die, we can’t remember who we are or why we’re here.” — Sue Monk Kidd, author
As speakers, we often shy away from “inserting” ourselves in our narrative. But personal anecdotes are among your best tools for speaking compellingly and convincingly.
The reason is simple: Sharing your personal connection to your topic lets the audience know that you have a true investment in the story you’re telling—or “skin the game.”
This isn’t just some content you’re delivering, in other words; this situation is something you’re personally connected to.
This is something you have lived.
Once the audience understands that, your story begins to gain true power.
If you are a professional speaker or you have a desire to become a speaker, it is vital you know how to share your story.
When you speak in public, a narrative is one of the best methods to engage your audience. But it is essential it is organised in a particular way. The object is to share an account of something that happened to you, an event, or something someone told you that makes a point.
It must have…
- A Purpose
- An Outcome
- A Message
- and an Action
What is your Why? Why is it important you get your message to the masses? What can you provide with your Why? What point do you want to make?
What is the purpose of your Why? What outcome do you want for your audience? What message do you want to portray with your Why? And what action will your Why encourage others to take?
If you want to deliver a presentation that is memorable (for all the right reasons), it is vital you have answers to these questions to ensure your story is congruent with your Why and it makes a point that will fulfil your purpose. It provides the outcome you desire, delivers your message and inspires action.
Use this link to discover more about speaking coaching and book a time to speak with Janeen.
