One of the most effective ways to get noticed, be heard and rise above the noise is to tell great stories. Stories are a powerful tool in connecting to your audience and potential supporters. Whether you run a retail business, online platform or a nonprofit, stories are one of your greatest assets.

The key is being able to tell better stories. You need to be able to tell stories that connect with people. You need to be able to tell stories that people don’t easily forget. We want to help you tell better stories and grow the impact of your organization.

Here are five keys to telling better stories as an organization:

1. Always start with “why”. People can usually discover what you do without too much effort. But helping them understand why you do it is crucial. People invest their emotions, energy and resources into great and compelling “whys”. Your “why” can be the story of a person you have helped, it can be the problem to which you offer a solution or it can be the result of a life experience. Just be sure you help your audience clearly understand why you do what you do.
2. Gather experiences from your supporters, customers or users. Let other people talk about your organization. The power of recommendation is unparalleled. The first hand experience of someone from the outside always lends credibility to your organization. The key here is to understand this is not about advertising. The purpose is to build an audience. When you get people to listen, you can get people to take action! (Click to Tweet)
3. Use consistent visuals: Beyond the stories you tell with words, the visuals you use also communicate a powerful story to your audience. Firstly, your visual branding such as logo and treatment, when used consistently, will cause your audience to begin to associate certain emotions with your brand. Pair that with compelling photos and videos that show (not just tell!) what you do, and your story will be unforgettable.
4. Create action and opportunities for your audience. People will only listen to your stories for so long. It is absolutely crucial that you begin to engage them in your story. Invite them to become a character in your narrative. Give them a chance to become an advocate for your cause --  your “why”. Ask them to share in the experiences and the opportunities. When you inspire the mind and engage the hands, you create a loyal following that is priceless.
5. Always make your stories about others. Never make your stories about you. The purpose of your story is to inspire, engage and encourage the listener or reader. The most effective way to do that is to make the story focus on your audience. Don’t spend time talking about you. Share about why your organization benefits the audience and the world. Talk about the chance to impact life, not the bottom line of the annual budget and goals. When you make your stories about others and personal benefits, people are far more prone to listen, engage and support your organization.

It is crucial that you tell better stories. Part of that process requires great strategy. Become intentional, strategic and purposeful in crafting your stories. Great storytelling can be the key to success or the path to failure. (Click to Tweet)

At The A Group we are passionate about helping you tell your story. We love helping great organizations unlock the recipe to great stories and big success. Whether you are looking to create a new campaign, launch a new venture or revitalize your current organization; we can help.

Take a few minutes today to connect with us and let one of our team members help you discover the potential in your stories!