The Story Factor

Everyone responds to a good story. For as long as humans have existed it has been the way we relay history, legends and lessons. The power of story is so great that it makes the need to learn how to do it better a must for business professionals. In this great book Annette Simmons not only clearly explains how to get better but also why leaders need to have a clear vision, clear purpose the capability to using relevant information and narrative to educate and inspire others. In summary Annette tells us how to show people that we know and understand the things that they care about.

Simmons begins by describing the six stories that we need to know how to tell: Who I Am; Why I Am Here; Vision; Teaching; Values-in-Action; and I Know What You’re Thinking.

My Take On The Book

This is one of my favorite business books, period. It has been a foundational piece in how to teach, speak and explain complex issues. I would recommend the book for anyone who speaks on a regular basis, whether it be to an audience of 200 or an 1. I think most importantly the book illustrates that facts don’t always tdo the best job of winning people over or persuading them. In fact (no pun intended)  emotionally based stories can have a much bigger impact than a traditional argument or plain facts.

This book really does show that storytelling has a place in the business world.