Narrative techniques (or storytelling, which sounds more fashionable) are gradually introduced into the discipline of public speaking. Before, only great orators took advantage of the possibilities of a good story. Now, companies also want to add spice to their corporate presentations with this tool.
In the world of marketing, media, and business, they all use storytelling. They soak up the information because the message is easier to deliver and the audience can relate to the topic much deeper. Presenting the company’s roadmap through storytelling is an effective technique to help the audience understand company’s vision and purpose.
So that you can see that it is not as complicated as the others may say, here are some guidelines for using storytelling in your presentations:
- Bring your characters to life . Don’t say a customer got angry. Make your audience put themselves in the client’s shoes, interpret their reaction and “dialogue” with them on stage. Don’t underestimate the power of performances, they are great ways to add dynamism, create impact and incorporate touches of humor.
- Show your vulnerabilities. What would Superman be without his Kryptonite? We love imperfect and moronic heroes, Batman’s darkness makes him believable. Dare to show your past mistakes or failures, your setbacks. You will become more human and, consequently, closer.
- Tell your story, don’t let go of your stuff. A storyteller knows that the important thing is not to reach the end of the story without skipping a paragraph, but to entertain, move and amuse the children who listen to him. And if that means improvising or skipping situations, he’s going to do it. Your story remains up in the air if your audience doesn’t pick it up. Focus on your audience and they will take your story home.
- Start a conversation. Your story, like all, has unanswered questions, intrigues that strain with pure attention, characters to identify with, difficult decisions and options waiting to be made. Get your audience involved: ask them directly even if you know they will only respond mentally, push them to imagine this or that situation. Involve them in your narration.
- Get to the point. The audience’s attention is limited, especially in an oral presentation surrounded by stimuli. Will you start with an introduction? Will you comment on the index of the talk? Nothing more predictable and boring for your audience. Impact them from minute one!
- And lastly, live it! Your presentation should project your enthusiasm. It is not a communication and that’s it. This is about exposing yourself, spreading emotions and provoking actions. If you fall into the habit of giving serial talks you will lose charisma and motivation. Each presentation should be a memorable experience for your audience and unique for you.
Take advantage of the power of storytelling. We all have stories to tell. Find yours, your company’s, your project’s and share it. You will be surprised how incredible and easy it is to connect with people, capture and keep their attention and stay in their memory. Moreover, your audience won’t get bored or feel sleepy when they hear you speak because storytelling is engaging, educational, and much more believable.