What are your stories?

Storytelling is an art. 

Renown motivational speaker Brian Tracy says that storytelling is one of the best kept secrets to get someone’s attention. He uses the ideal example of when a salesperson during a sales call, will pull up closer to their customer or prospect and ask, “can I tell you a story?”  Everyone loves a story. Who would say no?  The key is to be able to tell a story effectively. 

In the past, I have stressed the importance in delivering an executive summary, and using STAR methodology when answering interview questions, but storytelling is also an important aspect and it needs to be practiced. 

When in job search mode, the general rule of thumb is to have 4 great stories that can be used in an impromptu way to show your experience and your past success.  They may explain what you have done in the past, how you have overcome adversity to reach your goals, and show your thought process in action. 

The logic is that these stories can be used while answering a variety of questions (especially behavioural questions) to help someone understand you better and to also allow you to present yourself in the best possible manner. 

Some people are able to insert these stories into relaxed conversation better than others, but everyone should be adopting this practice. Introverted people often struggle at building rapport with people who do not understand their backgrounds or who have little desire to “pull teeth” from a candidate during a meeting.  If you throw in the complication that the introvert might also be between jobs, you might have the recipe for a very awkward and unproductive meeting.  Being able to use your stories can be a lifeline for a meeting that might have otherwise gone south. 

Find your four stories and practice them!  Update them when you have better stories to tell! You will find that the interviews/meetings will become much more productive and enjoyable. 

Farewell,

Mike