Here’s why storytelling matters

Stories are your #1 tool for inspiring others. 

I would even say, if you have a big mission… it’s essential you learn the art and skill of storytelling. 

If it wasn’t for telling the right stories, I wouldn’t have been able to land the first KINN location in Venice. 

And the 100+ members we’ve had join this year wouldn’t have gotten their projects off the ground.

In retrospect, it’s easy to see how the stories you tell can impact those around you.

So why don’t we ever deliberately practice storytelling?

Take this inspiring 60 second story Simon Sinek shared about Nike.

Phil Knight –– Nike’s founder –– was speaking at a large conference. He asked the audience to stand up if they’ve ever “run for exercise.”

Most stood up. Then he said “keep standing if you run twice a week.” 

Most sat down. 

He then goes “if you run 3x per week, rain or shine, no matter the weather, keep standing.” 

There were only a few people left.

Phil then goes on to share “Next time you’re out there when it’s dark, cold, and rainy, and you’re still running by yourself… we’re the ones under the lamp post cheering you on.”

That’s Nike –– summed up in a story. 

It moves, touches and inspires… while also emphasizing how much they care about their customer. 

This is how to truly get your message across.

Whether you want to inspire people to buy a product, join your team, support your cause, or share your message… you need a great story.

(Also thanks to KINN member John Kulback for sharing the clip with me). 

So think about this in your company, your team, or with whatever you want to share with the world.

How can you tell better stories?

How can you not just share ideas, information and data… but inspiring stories to move others into action?

It just might be the missing piece you need.

I’ll close with an old Native American Proverb that goes:

“Tell me the facts and I’ll learn. Tell me the truth and I’ll believe. But tell me a story and it will live in my heart forever”

Chat soon,

Oliver

PS. If you’re interested in actively developing this skill further,

Check out the 6-week Storytelling Accelerator we’re hosting at The KINN in just one week. 

You’ll join a curated cohort of other entrepreneurs and leaders to refine your speaking, clarify your message and create your own signature TED talk.