I'm continually amazed at how people, when asked, simply can't tell a story about themselves. It seems to me that everyone - EVERYONE - enjoys a story to one degree or another. It also seems that the most charismatic people I've met have a unique ability to tell enthralling or at least interesting stories. Some have this as a talent and others have it as a learned ability. I used to think I was good at it. Then, I uncovered the fact that story-telling is a discipline which must be practiced and refined. It isn't just something that you do from time to time. As humans, we do it all the time. Some just do it in such a way that it seems more believable and also more captivating. Now, why do I bring this up? What job would seem most suited to good story-telling? Sales. Why, I wonder, am I on a streak right now of working and interacting with sales people who simply can't tell a good story?
Formula for a good story (not mine but a good formula):
- The Idea or stage
- En media res (it's taking place right now)
- Reversal of fortune (think Andy Dufrense "Dew-frain")
- Everyday hero - just like you and me
- Specific context - when? June of 2008, where? Phoenix Sky Harbor
- Idea of risk
- Vague (to facilitate audience self-identification)
- Positive Outcome (oh, here's the best part!)
- Relevance - connected to the listener
