Skip to main content

Visit My Featured Affiliate

Do Stories Always Win the Day?

The business book “Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins” by Annette Simmons got me wondering. While it sounds good, is that true?

A class on freelance writing I attended came to mind. One night, several recent college graduates left scathing evaluations. They hated the anecdotes that middle-aged adults loved. They wanted nothing but practical to-do’s.

I thought also about the TV show “Shark Tank.” Often the “Sharks” become enchanted by a contestant’s story. But they then decide because of unsatisfactory answers to questions like, “Do you have a patent?” “How many have you sold so far?” “What’s your manufacturing cost?” or “How is this scalable?”

A “Shark” may invest because of the contestants’ story, despite such answers. Most of the time the unsatisfying answers prompt, “I’m out.”

Whether stories produce results depends on the context and the audience. So don’t put all your hopes on storytelling!

Comments

Most Read This Week

Your Window Display Can Be a Silent Salesperson

Your storefront window is like a billboard for your business. It’s the first thing people see, and it can make or break their decision to walk in. So, how do you make sure your window display is a head-turner? The Power of Visual Storytelling Think of your window display as a silent story. You’re using visuals to tell people what your business is all about, what you offer, and why they should choose you. It’s all about grabbing their attention and making them eager to know more. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Your window display doesn’t have to be filled with only items you sell. Explore unconventional solutions and use props, mannequins, and even unexpected items to create a scene that’s eye-catching and memorable. The goal is to create a display that’s so captivating, people stop in their tracks to take a closer look. This could mean using vibrant colours, unique textures, or even a touch of humour. Remember, you want to make people say “Wow!” A great window display can generate bu...

The Culture of Business Planning in Small Enterprises

When it comes to small and privately run companies, the culture of business planning is often shaped by a few key principles. These principles not only guide the operations of the business but also foster a sense of community and purpose within the organization. We can examine the three main principles that define this culture. Flexibility and Adaptability For many small businesses, things can change in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a shift in market demand, unexpected competition, or even a global pandemic, the ability to adapt is crucial. Responsive Planning: Small companies frequently create business plans that are living documents. This means they’re not set in stone; instead, they evolve as circumstances change. The culture encourages team members to regularly revisit and revise their strategies. Embracing Change: Employees are typically empowered to suggest changes based on their experiences and observations. This creates an environment where everyone feels valued and invest...