Is Storytelling A Soft Skill?

Let’s cut to the chase: yes.

Think about the last time you remembered what a presenter said.

I bet it was a story they told.

And beyond that if the story elicited an emotional response it released a dopamine hit (similar to a viral post).

Like it or not emotions drive a lot of our decision making.

I mean it’s the reason why people overbuy at Costco.

People buy what they WANT, not what they need.

At a deeper level the art of storytelling is to build a connection between two people or an audience.

In my 12 minute TEDx Talk, what helped me remember my content was the stories involved.

The information between the various stories was much harder to recall, but telling stories was the easier (and more impactful) part.

Research states 65% of people are visual learners and people retain 80% of what they see (including images in their mind).

So now that you understand the importance of storytelling as a soft skill.

Here are some tips on how to become a more effective storyteller:

1. Think like a narrator - use a combination of facts, meaning & perspective to think/act a new way.

2. Make it personal - show, don’t tell. Be vulnerable and authentic to be more relatable.

3. Speak with emotion - 93% of communication is non-verbal, so HOW you tell the story is what really matters

4. Work in surprises - make sure to add something to wake your audience up!

5. Advanced technique: start in the middle - make your story like a puzzle forcing your audience to problem solve

So now it’s your turn to apply it by putting it into practice.

For example when people ask me, “How do I become a better public speaker?”

My answer: “Volunteer and do more of it!”

Soft skills improve ONLY when you practice them.

We’ve all been captivated by a great storyteller and most likely they’ve worked on their craft.

Rarely are storytellers born, they’re made.

Some of the best storytellers to observe are comedians.

Their success is purely based off the audience’s reaction (talk about pressure!).

From a practical standpoint, in interviews, teaching, presenting, sales, etc. storytelling leaves an impact. 

So now you’re convinced storytelling is a vital skill to have, what are you going to do about it improve?

I’m happy to share what went into the prep of my TEDx Talk. All you need to do is reply to this email and I’ll share the details.

God Bless,

Scott

P.S. If you’re looking for someone to use storytelling to illustrate how to improve your soft skills at your next event, look here👇