Episode 38: How to Use Storytelling to Enhance Our Networking Skills with Ana Sousa Gavin
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In-person networking events are an essential part of running a successful business; getting out there and connecting with other entrepreneurs, potential collaborators and clients. However, the mere mention of “networking" and "elevator pitch" make me feel somewhat uncomfortable and I know I'm not alone in this! So I wondered if we approach networking as an opportunity to share stories with each other, what would that look, feel and sound like?
Ana and I explore these questions:
1. What was the most memorable story that someone shared to introduce themselves and what made it so?
2. What are some ways in which we could structure our stories in such a way that it would be memorable for someone we meet at a networking event?
3. It's a fine line to be prepared with some stories "up our sleeves" and coming across as genuine and not overly scripted, how do we manage this balance?
Ana also shares a clear, simple and relatable example which shows the difference between telling a story versus narrating a story and what emotional impact that has on the listener.
If you’re a professional who needs to attend networking events, the one story Ana says you must have in your toolbox is the WHY of your business or organization. So do you have that story?
We hope this episode inspires you to prepare those stories that will emotionally connect with others when you next go to that networking event. And, if you don’t know where to start you might like to listen to my “What’s in a name” technique that I share at the beginning of this episode and start with that! Let us know how you get on.
Connect with Ana
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasousagavin/
Email: [email protected]
Facebook group: Organic Storytellers
Ana’s Book Recommendations:
- Improv Wisdom by Patricia Ryan Madson. Potter. USA. 2010 - about the Improv theatre philosophy that applies not only to improv but to life in general and to public speaking. You become a better person if you follow her suggestions!
- If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? Alan Alda. Random House. USA. 2017 - a great book that applies Improv to real life and communication. It comes with descriptions of simple games that develop complex communication skills in a fun way.
- Storyworthy. Matthew Dicks. New World Library. USA. 2018 - this is a storytelling coach with brilliant yet simple ideas that can bring your storytelling to the next level. He also has an online course called Storyworthy.
Connect with Lisa
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/
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