We’ve been spending a few weeks talking about the art of telling stories and how to do it right. I’m guessing it’s only fitting to end this series (for now) by sharing some parting warnings on what not to do when telling your story.
Using storytelling in your business is a powerful tool, but only when it’s done right. There are virtually thousands of stories made available to an audience on a daily basis. And they’re all clamoring for attention. So how do you win the attending wars? Tell your story right and tell your story well.
So much of storytelling, especially through videos, depends on the content you put out and how you frame your content so that people can relate to it. The greatest goal in telling stories is to connect with your audience. And to connect, some practices should be avoided. Here are a few things that you should avoid doing when telling your story through video.
Don’t Be Boring
Sounds easy right? Well not all the time. While every business and brand has a story to tell, not all are told in a compelling way. Make sure that your stories are not boring by telling a story from a compelling stand point. People love seeing challenge in a story. Tell it from that perspective. And if there’s nothing compelling about your story then maybe it’s time to take a few risks, look for a little challenge and venture out a bit more.
Don’t Make It All About You
Don’t think that just because it’s YOUR story that it’s always going to be about you or your brand in the story. That’s not a good story. A great story takes into consideration the people and elements around them. That’s why movies have supporting casts. Who are your supporting casts? Your customers, partners, community or even competition perhaps. Talk about other people as well.
Don’t Miss Out on Communicating Emotions
A great story is one that doesn’t just narrate events but brings to light emotions and internal battles as you go along. When starting your business, how did you feel? That charity your business is helping, how did people react to accepting help? That narrative of your top client, how does your service or product make them feel? Don’t just narrate. Describe the emotions that happen as events unfold in your story.
Don’t Forget to Give People a Take Away
Since our study of storytelling is from the point of view of business, your story will need a call to action. Whether it’s supporting your cause, trying your product, joining an event or subscribing to a YouTube channel. The next step must be clear for your audience. You lead them well and they will follow your prompting.
Your Complete Guide to Marketing and Social Media
Get this full Social Media guide for FREE by signing up to our newsletter!
