One of the best opportunities leaders have to build immediate trust on teams is to tell stories. Great leaders are strong communicators. Some of the best leaders I ever had were great storytellers and communicators.
Why should leaders tell stories? Because stories can convey emotion, humor and learning. They are interesting, captivating and memorable. They can be inspiring, motivational and life changing. People relate to stories and generally love them.
I recommend leaders strive to tell one story in every meeting that they faciliatate. Make the story relevant and educational. Punctuate every story with learning. Explain to those listening how what you told them relates to something you want them to learn. It is also important that leaders learn how to tell stories. The more effective leaders are at telling stories, the more trust they will create in those they lead. It really works. For a more detailed post from this blog on how to collect and tell stories, click here.
"There have been great societies that did not use the wheel, but there have been no societies that did not tell stories."
~ Ursula K. LeGuin
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Thanks friends!
Mike Rogers
Founder and owner of Teamwork and Leadership
Mike has led, trained and consulted in business with hundreds of
individuals and teams on leadership and team concepts. He has served in a
number of entry level to senior level positions in both business and
volunteer work. His greatest satisfaction is seeing others succeed.
He is the proud father of eight children and one Grandchild and has
been married 25 years to the best part of his day! If you would like to
contact Mike you can do so at mike@secondg.net
