As a teenager, I worked for a summer with an organization that sponsored backyard clubs for kids of all ages. We told stories, had crafts, sang songs, and of course had treats. It was a fun time and anywhere from 15 – 30 kids attended each club. We met outdoors where the kids could enjoy the fresh air and warmth of summer.
One such club that I remember well had over 30 kids attend. Imagine standing outdoors with that many kids and not having a PowerPoint slide or video to tell the story! Instead, I had an extra-large picture book and used my voice and expressions to bring the story to life. In the middle of my storytelling, I noticed something pink peeking out from a bush at the back of the yard. As I looked closer, I realized that one of the adult neighbors was listening in on the story from a hiding spot. They couldn’t resist the pull of a great story!
Storytelling draws us in to listen to what is being said. Being outdoors meant many distractions from nearby swimming pools, cars and bikes passing by, or airplanes overhead. Despite distractions, the kids still listened intently, and we had a great time learning together. Stories have a compelling way of capturing our attention and our imagination.
Storytelling is also powerful because it helps us remember concepts by creating a picture of what we are communicating. When you want your team to remember something, sharing a story helps them internalize the information. Now the information is not just data, it is real and takes shape in our minds. A picture truly is worth a thousand words.
As leaders, we often share facts and logic, but those do not cement information into people’s minds the way a story or illustration does. What key message do you want to communicate to your team? Begin with a story to connect and engage your team!
