Telling stories that stick: Techniques from classic children’s tales
Five eye-opening lessons children’s fiction can teach us about shaping stories that last a lifetime
We use stories to make sense of the world, to tie together our experiences and relate to one another. They influence the way we think, feel, act and behave.
It’s no wonder then, that stories are such a powerful way to engage employees and that leaders are continually being encouraged to be great storytellers.
When leaders tell stories, they can capture our hearts, inspire our minds, and ignite the potential to create positive and sustained change for all.
Children’s stories are some of the most powerful communications in existence, with an appeal that often lasts generations.
But what makes a good story?
Well, why not start from the beginning – with the stories that shaped our thoughts and perceptions from when we were just a few years old. The stories that will stay with us forever, through a character we related to, or the emotions we felt.
We’re talking children’s stories.
So, what can we learn from them about what makes a gripping story, and how we can use this to help leaders bring stories to life in the workplace?
Here are five lessons from children’s stories to help leaders become powerful storytellers.
We are hardwired to remember, and learn from, the emotional impact of stories.
1. Start by introducing a compelling character
The best children’s books have an unforgettable and unique character.
Consider Harry Potter, Mary Poppins or Peter Rabbit. These characters keep the narrative alive, because you are keen to follow them on the next stage of their journey.
In business, your character could be your customer, beneficiary, or an employee – but crucially, we must empathise with and relate to them.
Compelling characters help keep the narrative alive, because you are keen to follow them on the next stage of their journey.
2. Then create a conflict
All good story plots are based on conflict and challenge. Here is an example:
Things start off happily. Then the main character has a big challenge to face; his or her story takes you on a rollercoaster ride where the character faces battles, takes risks, fails at first, and ultimately survives – bringing the story to a satisfying resolution.
And this doesn’t have to be in the present. It could be your leader projecting a story about your company’s future – of how your organisation needs to face the difficulties of standing out in saturated markets, and striving to deliver more for less – how will they face these challenges, and adapt to survive?
3. Reveal the resolution
This might be positive or negative. Stories shouldn’t just exclusively paint a positive picture! Real life has ups and downs – people connect to stories with drama. Vitally, the conclusion should complete the story but also call your audience to action.
4. Help people see themselves in the story
The best children’s stories transport you to another world and make you think ‘That could have been me’ or ‘What would I do if that happened to me?’.
Leaders should tell stories of real people in real situations, building empathy, and encouraging us to draw on our own experiences.
Relatable stories help employees see that each one of them can make a difference to achieving the company mission. They tap into their personal aspirations and help them realise that they can move forward as the heroes in their company.
5. Make stories conversational, not corporate
Organisations often have multiple, competing messages, and jargon-filled communications. Storytelling can cut through the clutter – delivering a single, clear and compelling message.
Leaders should make stories conversational, not corporate – as if they were sitting around a campfire, not a boardroom.
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