Create a Story Behind the Numbers: Business Storytelling

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Storytelling is the oldest and most contemporary form of influence, helping leaders connect emotionally and build stronger engagement with their teams.
• Influence does not only get a seat at the table - it helps you to build a better table.
• Hard power relies on authority and strictness, which can lead to rebellion or grudging compliance. In contrast, soft power emphasises connection, consultation, and collaboration.
  • Hard power may achieve compliance but often at the cost of long-term engagement, resulting in superficial agreement or passive resistance.
  • While soft power fosters connection and trust, it can be perceived as weak, ambiguous, and is often slower to produce results compared to hard power.
  • The key to effective leadership is mastering both hard and soft power, using the right approach depending on the situation. Context is critical for determining which power to apply.
• Aristotle's Three Pillars of Influence: To wield influence effectively, leaders need logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotional connection). 
• Business success comes from blending data with storytelling. Data informs, but stories bring it to life, making it more relatable and inspiring action.
• Stories must be authentic, have a clear purpose, and land well with the audience. Humour and creativity can enhance their impact, but they must remain true.
• Storytelling can drive measurable results, whether rolling out a strategy or leading change. It is key to crafting compelling messages that resonate and inspire shifts in behaviour.