Stories for Fundraising

Some time ago a colleague sent her normal weekly news notes but with a twist. This one time instead of talking about her expertise topic she talked about her grandson's diabetes. She explained his need to test his sugars 4-5 times a day and that now he no longer needs to take insulin shots because of a computerized pump he wears around his waist.

She crafted the short (about 6 lines) story to educate and pluck our heart strings just a bit. Her last line is about the advances made so far to allow the pump but that more are needed so that her grandson can be like other children sneaking chips, or licking the frosting bowl when Ahma is making a cake.

She then had a short plea to get involved with juvenile diabetes and help raise funds for research. Beautiful, she captured our attention with the story, educated us to the need, touched us emotionally and then had a call to action. Great example for any persuassive piece. Don't forget the story but keep it short and engaging.

The Universality of Story

In the most recent edition of Speaker, magazine publication of the National Speakers Association, I found a great quote. In the article "A Positive Outlook" Suzie Humphreys is being interviewed about her business. She relays a situation that occurred to her during one of her presentations, she became ill and had to leave the stage. When she returned she told the audience why she had run out "they howled with laughter". Her wrap up quote is from Rembrandt, "That which is most personal is most universal."

This is the very point I make with many clients. It they are willing to tell a personal story they will connect with any audience. The American Idol like show now playing in Arab countries proves that we humans are more alike than we are different. Our basic human experiences will connect us. Think about that the next time you are looking for a story to include in a presentation. Keep it simple and enjoy the camaraderie it engenders.

CEO Storyteller

Here is a link to an online article from Forbes about the importance of CEO's being good storytellers. I'm not talking about make believe stories but the ones that legends are built on.

http://www.forbes.com/2009/06/15/ceo-storytelling-communication-leadership-ceonetork-varghese.html

A CEO with a good story will inspire and unite his company. So what's your story?

Another invitation to tell your story

In past posts I've talked about different companies that are collecting stories from customers to use in their marketing efforts. Well the trend seems to be continuing. Last week an update from my health carrier included a blurb "Tell your inspiring story". The publication is collecting personal health and wellness victory stories.

It's never too late to incorporate more stories in your marketing, team building or presentations. Stories evoke emotions making your message memorable, stories stick!

There's always a story

In the last post I included a message from Chris Clark-Epstein. She had a quote from the show Castle "There's always a story - you just have to find it". I loved her whole message but this line from the TV show resonated because of my work. So often I am working with individuals who feel they have no story.

I think they mostly feel like that after they have heard some amazing story of the underdog triumphing. We all have important stories, maybe not as dramatic as climbing Mt. Everest but important nonetheless. Our stories of everyday success are actually more valuable because far more people can relate to them. Yeah we all love a good tale but relating to the everyday champion is easier.

Remember that the next time you are asked to tell your story. Your experiences matter.

Thinking for a Change

Well, after I congratulated myself for a year of blogging I went silent. Not on purpose, just busy. This past week though I knew I had to break my silence.

Chris Clark-Epstein sends a short, wisdom filled e-note regularly. I read them all because they are short and so insightful. This week's message was particulary relevant. Here it is in its entirety, with all of her contact information.

I love thinking about the power of stories. From my granddaughter Josie's opening "One upon a time" to grandson Elroy's, "Let's do an imagine" they remind me that making a story helps find order in our world whether we're little or grown-up. Catching up on some shows stored on my DVR while ironing brought me to this line in an episode of Castle.

"There's always a story - you just have to find it."

Maybe the next change you face needs a story to give it perspective. It's there, you just have to find it. Let me know if I can help.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Chris Clarke-Epstein, CSP
People can change when they find the personal motivation to do it!
www.Change101.com


To communicate directly with Chris: Chris@Change101.com
To learn more about what Chris can do for your organization, call 888-840-0930 or email Stel@Change101.com