Storytelling for Influence

Here’s why I did a 6 week course on a powerful strategic business tool called Storytelling.

We want to believe that we are rational beings. The truth is far from that. Research shows our brains are not hard-wired to understand logic or retain facts for very long. Our brains are wired to understand and retain stories. It is the Only way to activate parts in the brain so that a listener turns the story into their own idea and experience.

Data feeds the brain. Stories touch the hearts. They Inspire you to action.

Like the closing arguments of renowned lawyer Moe Levine for his client who suffered a double amputation of his arms. Addressing the jury, he said-

“As you know, about an hour ago we broke for lunch. I saw the bailiff come and take you all as a group to have lunch in the jury room. Then I saw the defense attorney, Mr. Horowitz. He and his client decided to go to lunch together.

“The judge and court clerk went to lunch. So I turned to my client, Harold, and said, ‘Why don’t you and I go to lunch together?’ We went across the street to that little restaurant and had lunch.”

Levine paused, then said, “Ladies and gentlemen, I just had lunch with my client. He has no arms. He has to eat like a dog. Thank you very much.”

Levine reportedly won one of the largest settlements in the history of the state of New York.

What’s your story? 🙂