As a matter of fact, my #1 strategy for creating authentic engagement and connection with my online audience is very simple: storytelling.
I’m not talking about the “OMG, you will never believe what I overheard yesterday…” kind of storytelling. Nope, I’m talking about digging deep and sharing your authentic, personal story; the story that shows your audience why you are who you are, how you got to your current position, what kind of challenges and difficulties you had to endure and, more importantly, overcome to get to where you are today.
I’m talking about that painful story you have kept to yourself for so long because you were almost ashamed to share it with others. That story, my friends, is the one that will not only change lives but create a powerful relationship in the process.
Watch below as I discuss the power of storytelling in this week’s Dish with Devani TV.
Here is something I want you to remember:
Facts tell and stories sell. (Click to tweet)
When you are truly vulnerable and authentic and are telling true stories about yourself, you’re going to create the deepest relationship you ever thought possible with your audience.
When you choose to let your guard down, you show others that you are just like them. That no matter how you may seem like you’ve got it all together on the outside, you struggle just like everyone else. By sharing your personal journey you make yourself more relatable to your audience.
All around the internet, people just like you have been through situations similar to the one that brought you to this point in your life. When you share your experiences you create a bond with others that then leads to trust. When you have gained your audience’s trust, that then opens up the door to possible business opportunities.
We all know people want to work with others that they know, like and trust. Sharing your authentic story solidifies all three of these qualities.
There is only one major rule of thumb to using storytelling in your business. Do not talk about a story if you are still currently going through a particular situation. The point of using an authentic story about a past struggle is to show your audience that you were able to work through your situation, overcome the difficulty, and succeed in the end.
You want to inspire others and let them know that you identify with their situation because you were there once yourself, and you have the life-experience to help them through their difficult times as well.
I love the use of storytelling, especially in business! Many incredibly successful people have used storytelling to share their unique, authentic selves with the world.
Oprah Winfrey speaks candidly about the abuse she suffered as a child and how she was able to overcome her life of poverty and suffering.
Sir Richard Branson is not ashamed to let people know what a failure he was in grade school and how he was able to turn his life around…so much so that he is now considered one of the most successful and influential business men on the planet!
Take a moment and think…what is your story?
What words of inspiration could you share with your audience that would show them your authentic self? How do you feel you could best engage your audience with your story? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.