Business Stories - Tall Tale or True

In an article by Harry Gardiner (Keeping Audiences Engaged With Effective Storytelling) he mentions the tall tale.  Apparently one of the co-founders of Netflix tells a story of how the company got started but it is an exaggeration of the truth. 

I am a tall tale fan, especially when well crafted but I an NOT a fan of tall tales for business.  Most businesses have a compelling real story behind the start up.  That's the story that will ring true and be authentic.  It will be easier to retell with conviction.  Craft this story so it is compelling and tell it. 

There can be a place for the tall tale or the invented story though.  When creating a future story or when trying to get people to imagine themselves in situations where your product or service will help them are two examples.  Please do be careful though and make sure people know it is an "imagine if" story.  (Netflix owners do not try to pass the story off as real.)

Robert McKee is a leader in the area of story in business.  He comes from a Hollywood background and understands story, the structure and power.  Here is a short blurb on an upcoming series of seminars he is holding on business storytelling.  If you are have a chance, this is an opportunity to learn from a master.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/9/prweb10946116.htm