Skip to the good part
I’m going to tell you a story…
Oh wait, I already ruined it.
Why do we preface stories with an announcement that we are about to tell one?
Perhaps it feels safe.
Perhaps we’ve heard others do the same.
Perhaps we haven’t put much thought into it.
Regardless of why, the habit hinders impact.
“Business storytelling” is a phrase that’s getting a lot of attention these days.
While the term may be trending, the practice is timeless. Stories have been the most effective way to transfer information and ideas since the dawn of creation.
However, if the concept is new to you, here’s the first step to hone your skill (and courage) in this area: Start with purpose, not preamble.
Rather than diluting your story with wasted words, capture your listener’s attention by sweeping them into the action.
Skip to the good part.