How to use Storytelling on a Smaller Scale
We're all in a battle against the common enemy: Saturated Markets. Gone are the days when a killer product alone would make you stand out. Nowadays, that's just the basic ticket to enter the game. So, the big question is: How on earth do we stand out?
One seriously underrated weapon in our arsenal is storytelling. We know it works, science and real-life stories is backing it up, yet we often brush it off, going back to the same old push-push-push sales tactics.
But, hold on tight – crafting killer stories doesn't just grab attention; it builds connections that lead to more than just sales – we're talking about that golden word, loyalty.
The Power of Storytelling:
So, why is storytelling such a game-changer? It's like the magic wand that turns brands into relatable, memorable humans. Look at Glossier and Spanx – their founders' stories are woven into the brand, making them unforgettable. Sharing real stories doesn't just seal the deal; it forges emotional bonds that go way beyond simple transactions.
Examples of Great Storytelling:
Think Toms and its "One for One" mission or Dove's "Real Beauty" campaign. These stories go beyond selling stuff; they create a brand identity people can rally behind. Now, I know these are giants, but storytelling isn't just for deep-pocketed brands. Stick with me, and I'll show you how to sprinkle some storytelling magic on your brand, no matter the size.
Applying Storytelling on a Smaller Scale:
First things first – your brand has more stories than a library. Sure, there's the origin story, but there's also the client transformations, testimonials, and even stories that simplify your brand's complicated mission. Just like in movies, there's the big arc and those little loops in between. Storytelling is a tool, and you can use it in tons of different ways to make your message pop.
The second nugget of wisdom – these stories are meant to grab your ideal audience. Know who you're talking to, what they dig, and where your brand fits in their lives. Forget about starting with the founder story – your clients want to see themselves in your tale, especially at the beginning.
Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty.
Authentic stories build trust. Sharing only the highs might make your brand seem untouchable, but opening up about the lows is just as crucial. Vulnerability connects.
And visuals? Oh, they're your secret sauce. Videos, and images – they turn your stories from black and white to Technicolor. Ever compare a picture book to a novel or a movie? Exactly. The more senses you tickle, the more attention you'll grab.
Social media is your storytelling playground. Instagram, and Facebook – perfect for bite-sized stories. Share behind-the-scenes, shoutouts from customers – and it doesn't have to be Hollywood-level production. Start a caption with, "You won't believe what happened to me yesterday."
Consistency is key. Keep that brand voice and story rock solid, whether it's your website, social media, or packaging. You want your clients to see you and think, "Yep, that's my peeps."
Embrace storytelling. You can stand out in a sea of competition by creating a narrative that resonates. Whether you're a global giant or the new kid on the block. In a world obsessed with transactions, be the brand that connects on a whole different level.
Need some prompts to get you started? Coming right up!
The Good Morning Story:
Share a quick snippet of your morning routine. Use this as a perfect introduction to greet your audience and initiate a story loop. Consider incorporating a quick poll like: How was your weekend? How is your day going?"You won’t believe what happened to me yesterday!!”:
Drop a powerful curiosity bomb that hints at the beginning of an intriguing story. Encourage your audience to lean in and discover more.Get Ready With Me (GRWT) Clips:
Take your clients through a day in your life with GRWT clips. Provide them with an insider's view of your routine, creating a personal connection.Behind the Scenes & Result:
Lift the veil between polished results and the messy process. Share relatable content that showcases the journey from concept to completion.Highlight a Part of Your Process:
Showcase specific aspects of your work – whether it's packing a product, an inspiration trip, sketches, or location scouting. This is perfect to communicate the effort and value of your service or product, setting you apart.Transformation of Your Clients:
Illustrate the transformation experienced by your clients. Contrast the pain before with the happiness after, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience.Flashback Friday:
Share a memorable moment or achievement from your past. Reflect on how that experience shaped your journey, connecting your audience to the roots of your brand.User Spotlight:
Feature a story or testimonial from a satisfied customer. This adds authenticity and relatability to your brand, as real experiences resonate with your audience.Unexpected Challenges:
Discuss a hurdle or challenge you faced in your business. Share the lessons learned and how you overcame it. This vulnerability builds trust and showcases your resilience.Day in the Life of a Team Member:
Introduce a team member and provide a glimpse into their role and contributions. Humanize your brand by showcasing the personalities behind your products or services.
IF YOU FOUND SOMETHING INSPIRING, INTRIGUING, OR ENCOURAGING IN THIS JOURNAL ENTRY—I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW!
Send me a message in the DMs or contact me to inquire about working together. I can’t wait to keep the conversation going.
