2 tips to telling your own story and selling, yourself, your business and your brand.
Just before you get the full gist of this article, one thing you must understand is that, in the business of storytelling – “Every story is relevant”.
Perhaps, this should be at the centre of your strategies as the year runs by!
Story telling is one of the most powerful tools we have for activating people. It is one of the best ways to connect with your audience, build influence and drive sales.
The amazing thing is, we all have stories…
Effective storytelling involves a deep understanding of human emotions, motivations, and psychology in order to truly move an audience.
Psychologists generally agree that there are six basic emotions: anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise. Well, I think they omitted love!
Why do you think big brands such as the Coca-cola sticks so well with people? Because they understand these things. The emotions and psychology of humans.
They are always telling the stories of happiness, fun, laughter, love, family. And because these things are important to us, we all connect with the brand and associate their product with these feelings.
And yes, it works for them every single time!
Dear Young Person and Startup Entrepreneur,
If there is one thing you should be doing now, at this stage of your career or business, it is telling your own (personal) story.
I learnt this lesson first hand at an event I attended sometime last year; It was a training on Forex trading. Quite an expository one. Soon, two young men and a lady was called out to share their experiences in the trade, probably give testimonies of their gains.
The first young man came up, told us the story of how he discovered Forex trading; he was just a serving Corp member at that time, he spent the little cash he had learning the trade. Today, he had finished serving, but did not have the need to look for a job, Forex trading has been paying his bills.
Beautiful story, we all easily connected with him!
The lady came up and told us also of how she has been doing menial jobs that could hardly pay her bills; she was always broke and would struggle to meet her basic needs until she stumbled on Forex trade.
But there she was, merely looking at her, you would know she has touched some money, maybe not much, but she looked good!
Such zero to hero story, we were happy for both tellers.
Then finally, the last man came up. This man looked more articulate and literate than the first two, but for whatever reasons, obviously, he didn’t understand the Power of story telling.
And just decided to speak English and grammar for us. In no time the audience started throwing words at him. “Oga, what are you saying?” “And so what?” “How much you don make?” the words just kept coming.
The hall was becoming rowding. English man had to stop his grammar. I can’t even remember anything he said. But I just can’t forget the stories of the other two persons.
If you were to patronize any one of these three, who would it be?
Human beings are story telling beings. If you want their attention, then you must find a story to tell.
Whether you are going for a job interview, whether you are selling a product or service, whether you are building a brand. Let your story flow.
Many times you think you don’t have a story. Especially for starters. You are looking for a grass to grace story to tell, when all we want to hear is why you started up.
Your intension for doing the things you do, the purpose of your true self, that which distinguish you from thousands of other persons out there doing the same thing you do.
Oh yes. Nothing is new under the sun. Whatever idea you have, people are already on it. And perhaps, scaling greatly than you are. The only difference however is your experience, your story, it’s not always the same.
This is what distinguishes you. It is what helps you stand out. Your story. Tell it!
Tip 1
People consume information that is entertaining, reflects their existing beliefs, or helps them be a better version of themselves – Structure your story in this manner.
Never be afraid nor ashamed to tell your story.
The Internet is saturated daily with information. The statistics is mind blowing! Browse on any subject whatsoever, you would find very useful, detailed information on it.
But one thing you would never find is your story! Yes. This is your selling point!
Find a way to offer value, in product or services, telling your own story.
And yes! The easiest way to start is writing.
Write your hustle.
Tip 2
I recommend the Pixar strategy of storytelling. Simple and easy to apply. It reads:
Once upon a time there was [blank].
Every day, [blank].
One day [blank].
Because of that, [blank].
Until finally [bank].
The above is great for fiction, but also does well for nonfiction.
So now at BeInspired Show, guess the “write your hustle” series is long overdue!!
Are you ready to go on this ride with us?
Whatever story you have lurking in your heart, here comes a great opportunity to tell it! Whether in the form of fiction or nonfiction.
Change your world
Tell your story.
Write your hustle.
Create a better future for YOU!!!
PS: The stories above is not a paid ad for Forex Trade, but to show you the effectiveness of telling your own story and selling yourself.
Writer, Founder, BeInspired Show
Author, Power Content
