Andrew Grace Associates

Attorneys know stories: "war" stories, client stories, historical organizational stories and "he said, she said" interpersonal stories. Have you ever considered the possibility that storytelling could bring clarity and energy to your work place?

I listened to Annette Simmons tell her story at the National Storytelling Conference this year about writing her latest book, Whoever Tells The Best Story Wins. Annette researched storytelling in organizations and asserts that "storytelling is the most valuable skill you can develop to help you influence others."

While facts are critical to a situation, stories make sense of those facts and motivate action. What if a co-worker told you to use online networking because it is a powerful communication tool? Perhaps you would give it a try but perhaps not. What if a co-worker told you she used LinkedIn, (www.linkedin.com), an online network of more than 18 million global professionals, to identify resources for her presentation and found 168 within a few minutes from her direct connections and also found potential business prospects? Her story has energy and communicates meaning more powerful than facts.

Direct experience is a powerful teacher but a story can change minds, create new decisions and generate collaboration. Next time you need to influence others: focus on your desired outcome, know the facts and, most important, tell a story!