Home topics small-business-resources public-relations-blogs PR Sales PR Why you need to become a good storyteller Jo Macdermott August 27, 2012 Using a story is a highly effective way to get your point across. A great story is memorable and easy to understand, and can engage and draw in your audience far more readily than a speech or presentation can. But the thought of having to tell a story strikes fear into the hearts of many otherwise confident public speakers. The good news is that effective storytelling is not as difficult as it might seem. Being prepared is the key. Once you understand what makes a good story, and how to deliver it, you can have your audience enthralled at your next presentation or meeting . Try these tips to help increase your storytelling effectiveness, and use narrative to your advantage in conveying your business message: Before you start, make sure you are clear in your own mind as to exactly what the point is that you want to get across. Sticking to the essence of your message can help avoid overly long, rambling monologues that have the potential to send your audience to sleep. Don’t make it too unbelievable. Your story needs to be something your audience can identify with, so make sure it is not too far-fetched. Often the most effective stories draw on basic experiences that everyone has gone through, or can relate to. If your story is obviously made up, your audience may distrust it, and as