The power of storytelling? It’s all about truth, honesty, authenticity, simplicity and relevance, and appealing to the emotional as well as the rational side of our cognitive processes.
So when we’re asked how stories can help change culture and behaviours in business, we’ll tell you that it’s all about belief systems, and breaking through the barriers that are often created by hierarchies, multiple layers of management and organisational complexity.
Engagement and emotional connection can only truly be achieved when a person aligns their personal journey with that of the organisation. When the two align, and that individual’s able to discover the personal role and contribution he or she can make, the sense of ownership, empowerment, belonging and meaning can have an immediate and dramatic effect on his or her beliefs, attitude and actions.
We make this alignment process effective through telling a simple, clear and compelling story that everyone can understand, then sharing simple yet meaningful stories about the impact of actions and behaviours on their lives that link back to the ‘master’ narrative. True, honest, authentic, simple and relevant stories, top down and bottom up, that help the penny drop.
It’s an amazing feeling to have turned a disconnected organisation into one that’s connected. If you’d like to hear more, please contact us.