Stories are Essential During Your Presentations

People are moved by their heads and their hearts. Data alone will not convince people.

Knowing this, many companies have adapted a storytelling approach when presenting, especially with prospects and clients. A relevant engaging story helps to deepen the human connection and increase the likelihood of ideas being remembered. Stories also distinguish you as a presenter.

If you would like for your presentations to ‘stand out’, the following story telling checklist will insure your success.

 
1.  Does your story make a single point? Is the point obvious? You should never attempt to re-explain your story.

2.  Is your story relevant? Have you chosen the right story for the message and person or business you are speaking with?
 
3.  Does the story have an emotional component? Does it grab attention? A boring story interests no one and wastes time.

4.  Does your story have a plot with a beginning, middle or end? Is there a clear resolution to a problem?

5.  Have you made your characters interesting? Can your audience picture them? Can your audience see how the characters look, what they are doing, or how the characters feel?

6.  Do you know where you will use this story in your presentation? For example, will you deliver your story at the start of your presentation to capture the attention of your audience? Or, will you wait till the end to emphasize the ‘key point’ of your solution / offering etc? Wherever you plan to insert your story it must appear seamless.

7.  Have rehearsed your story in your head? You might practice your story by telling your spouse or business colleague.

8.  Is passion or energy apparent in your body and voice when you tell your story? A poor storyteller will ruin the best tale when not fully engaged with their own story.

9.  Tell your story in under 3 minutes? Any more time could mean unnecessary details and rambling.

10.  What do you want your listeners to think, feel or remember from your story?

11.  What action do you want listeners to take as a result of your story?

12.  What questions might your story evoke? Preparing ahead for any tough questions will prevent you from being caught off guard.


Becoming a good storyteller is a tremendous way to make a salient point. It builds trust and enhances the likelihood that your prospect or client will act on your recommendations.

If you have made a check by each of the twelve questions above, you are ready. The more you use this model, the better you will become.

All the best!