There's a reason that parents and teachers tell stories...and it matters in business, too.

Stories have been on my mind lately. 

It started off when I went to see my friend Melissa perform in Baltimore's Stoop Storytelling series, broadcast on WYPR.  Brave woman, she auditioned and got selected to perform live at Centerstage.  (Want to listen to her story about the Mississippi River?  Click here. )

Then I encountered a few clients who had "preachy" marketing messages:  focused way too much on what people ought to do, giving advice and counsel without any background or reasoning. People don't like to be preached at (usually.)  Think Homer Simpson in church. 

My counsel to my clients---try to tell a compelling story that real people can relate to, make your point without beating them over the head.  Tell a story about something you did or experienced.  Or someone else---a friend, relative, client, business acquaintance.  It doesn't need to be long or complex. Just something clever, relevant and well-written that can illustrate your point.  Borrow someone else's story if need be!

Here's a great article a Harvard Business School professor on the power of stories within corporations and businesses.

As I was writing this newsletter, I got my friend Tea Silvestre's newsletter and lo and behold, she was talking about the very same thing! She says all other things being equal, people will do business with people who fascinate them.  And the way you hook 'em is by connecting with stories.  Try it and see how folks react!

Video can be a great way to personalize, add a story to your website.  For $299 you can add one to your site---there are still spaces for July 24th!  Click here for details.