Just Story It
92
All the best info on storytelling to lead and grow your biz
Curated by Karen Dietz
Follow
Scooped by Karen Dietz onto Just Story It
Scoop.it!

The Power of Sequenced Content & Social Media for B2B Lead Generation -- Think Stories!

The Power of Sequenced Content & Social Media for B2B Lead Generation -- Think Stories! | Just Story It | Scoop.it
As a business journalist, I looked forward to information from a handful of specific sources each quarter. In fact, my quarterly e-commerce reports would wait
Karen Dietz's insight:

Yeah -- what a great reminder! Craft your biz stories as sequenced content!


Better yet, plan a content campaign of sequential articles with a narrative arc.


Or serialize a narrative over several posts!


That is where my mind went after reading this article. Now the author here is really just talking about creating a series of posts over time all on the same topic that work together.


But my storytelling mind said "Woah! There is a lot more here that could be done." 


So this article presents a great idea -- but doesn't go quite far enough for all us biz storytellers. Yet it is still worth curating and reading because of all the tips and points it does make.


Dig in (it's not long), get the interesting stats showing how sequenced content gets results, and start connecting the stories together in a series of articles/blog posts, etc!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Karen Dietz's comment, December 15, 2012 1:52 PM
Thank you Beth for re-scooping this! And LOL, I see we both scooped the local stories piece from NPR. Great minds think alike!
Karen Dietz is also curating
Personality Type @ Work
Discover Topics Karen Dietz is following
Where is the love? Content Curation World Digital Presentations in Education whats been spotted on etsy today? MarketingHits E-Learning and Online Teaching
and 68 others
  All the best info on storytelling to lead and grow your biz.                            Contact us today! (619) 235-0052
Your new post is loading...
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Just Story It - Scoops

Just Story It - Scoops | Just Story It | Scoop.it

Here are the best articles from across the web that I can find on using stories and storytelling in business.

I've chosen them because they actually make a contribution to our knowledge and wisdom about stories, show us how to apply stories to growing our businesses, or give valuable how-to tips.


I weed out all the junk. And besides, who needs another post in why storytelling is important?? Where's the beef?? We want the meat!


I've written reviews of each article to share what I like best, what you can get from reading the article, or what may be missing in the article.

 

How To Find A Topic: Click on the Filter tab above, and type in a keyword. All the articles with that keyword will appear.

 

I may occassionally review an article that I think is problematic as a way to educate us all, although most I will simply pass over.  If you wonder if I've seen an article that is not included here, send me a message and I'll respond.

After doing biz story work for over a decade (and with a PhD in Folklore) I hope you find many great insights and tips here. Many thanks for visiting and enjoy the articles!

 

And I hope you will also visit my website for more tips and tools, & take the free Story IQ assessment so you can see how well developed your storytelling skills and knowledge is: http://www.proprofs.com/quiz-school/story.php?title=storytelling-skills-ni-part- 

Karen Dietz's comment, May 17, 12:53 AM
Thank you Evalir for the shout out!
Karen Dietz's comment, May 21, 3:35 PM
Thank you so much for rescooping the Just Story It curation! I appreciate the acknowledgement and have a great week.
Karen Dietz's comment, May 21, 3:36 PM
I so appreciate the shout-out Jose and thank you so much for re-scooping my curation. Hope you have an awesome week.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Where Do You Come From? Tips For Creating A Powerful Biz Place Story

Where Do You Come From? Tips For Creating A Powerful Biz Place Story | Just Story It | Scoop.it
There's a good reason Apple puts Designed in California on its products rather than Built in China. Lessons for all of us on developing a successful...
Karen Dietz's insight:

This article is all about how to leverage your geographic location for business advantage.


That idea is not new, but I like how this article treats the topic. The author, Mark McNeilly, makes the point that everybody wants to know where your business is located. So why not really use that as a marketing angle?


He gives clear examples of how location can influence your customer's perception about you. He suggest avoiding postcard branding -- that's where you put a picture of the Eiffel Tower on your package but you don't live in Paris.


McNeilly next makes several points, with examples, about connecting your story to your geographic location. Like Chrysler's 'imported from Detroit' campaign and microbreweries that are gaining repution because of how they are leveraging their location.


Now the question remains in my mind -- in what ways can I connect living in San Diego, CA to my story curation, consutling, and coaching busines? Hmmmmm....I may have to go to the beach to ponder that one :)


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Imparafacile's curator insight, May 22, 5:11 AM

Anche il luogo di nascita di un'azienda può diventare punto forte del brand.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

At Hopleaf Bar, A Tale Behind Every Ale

At Hopleaf Bar, A Tale Behind Every Ale | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Mike Roper's a sucker for a good story. One afternoon, while sampling beers at his Uptown bar Hopleaf, he relayed how archaeologists in Turkey unearthed pottery buried for thousands of years,...
Karen Dietz's insight:

Wow -- what a great use of stories at Hopleaf bar in Chicago! This is one business who's doing storytelling right.


Here in San Diego, CA we have a hot hot hot micro-brew industry winning all kinds of awards. Now they just need to follow Hopleaf's lead and connect their stories to their beers to boost sales even more.


Hmmm...sounds like I need to take a wander down to my local pub Hamilton's (100 different brews available and counting) for a draft and to whisper in their ear :)


For your business, how can you do the same as Hopleaf?


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it 

La Belle Page's curator insight, May 19, 3:55 AM

Pour l'inspiration.... very interesting as ever, thanks Karen  !

 

malek's comment, May 19, 7:39 AM
Mind provocative......stories from a bar! thank you
Karen Dietz's comment, May 20, 9:07 PM
Glad you both found it inspiring, provocative, and fun to read!
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Why it’s time to rethink visual storytelling on the web from the bottom up

Why it’s time to rethink visual storytelling on the web from the bottom up | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Karen Dietz's insight:

Now here is a very provocative piece! It's web producer and publisher Adam Westbrook proposing a new idea for visual storytelling on the web. Or suggesting we start looking for one. Either way, Westbrook is definitely on the cutting edge.


Even better, this is all presented in story form. With a very different kind of visual presentation than you are used to. So Westbrook is walking his talk here.


Both Westbook's ideas and his presentation are very creative. I know you will enjoy both, and get a taste for where visual storytelling on the Internet is going.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

cyneth's curator insight, May 16, 4:23 PM

Adam Westbrook is proposing a new idea for visual storytelling on the web.

As technology becomes more pervasive and immersive, artists are sensing limitless possibilities on the horizon. Adam invites developers, designers, artists and storytellers to engage in a conversation around new ideas.

Jonathan Rodgers's curator insight, May 16, 4:47 PM

bottoms up

mirmilla's curator insight, May 17, 11:12 AM

Visual Storytelling as a web-native form. An inspiring thought.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

How Siemens successfully uses storytelling

How Siemens successfully uses storytelling | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Keith Ritchie, storyteller at Siemens, talks to Marketing about his role as a storyteller and just how powerful telling a story can be to engage clients, potential clients, and staff. What does story-telling mean to you?
Karen Dietz's insight:

Here is a terrific article about how Siemens incorporates storytelling as a core competence in both its marketing and internal corporate culture.


It's a fascinating piece where Keith Ritchie from Siemens talks about why they use stories, how they use them, and how they think about them. There's even a discussion about ROI which is a nice twist on how to think of the ROI of stories.


I have no idea who actually wrote the article, based on an interview with Ritchie, or I would thank them for putting together such a thorough piece.


If you are curious about how larger organizations are using stories -- and how you might be able to do the same regardless of your size -- then check out this post.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

malek's curator insight, May 12, 7:46 PM

It's a strategy, not just words

gillkelley's curator insight, May 13, 4:31 AM

Great explanation of 'storytelling' as a strategy or concept, as told to the Australian version of "Marketing'.

Emma's curator insight, May 15, 7:56 AM

Esto si es branding

Rescooped by Karen Dietz from EPIC Infographic
Scoop.it!

Why Stories: 90% of Orgs Use Content in Marketing [INFOGRAPHIC]

Why Stories: 90% of Orgs Use Content in Marketing [INFOGRAPHIC] | Just Story It | Scoop.it

Did you know that 90% of all organizations use content in their marketing efforts?

Although the phrase "content marketing" is something of a buzzword amongst today's promotional teams, the reality is that this inbound marketing practice is both remarkably widespread and effective. To learn more about what content marketing is, how it can benefit your organization and how to get started using this technique to promote your company, check out the following infographic from Demand Metric "A Guide to Marketing Genius: Content Marketing".

 

Source: http://www.demandmetric.com/content/content-marketing-infographic

 


Via Jonha Revesencio
Karen Dietz's insight:

What a powerful infographic! If ever there were useful stats on how stories can generate results, this is it.


But you say, "This is about content." Yes -- and what makes compelling content that generates results? Stories!!


So think of this infographic as the handy data you need that demonstrates why 'content' and 'content marketing' is so critical these days.


It's a shame the inforgraphic left out stories when illustrating what goes into content. Well, just imagine this as part of the diagram and it will paint a complete picture for you.


The take away here? 1 -- share lots of content to increase your leads and grow your business. 2 -- make sure that content is all about sharing stories, regardless of the medium or format. This is your ticket to success!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Steven Mallach's curator insight, May 15, 5:29 AM

This is one of the most powerful infographics that I have seen that makes the case for content. Scroll down to find out more about the power of well written articles.

 

This is an open secret that quality online and even print publications have known for many years - that classical advertising only works up to a point. Most consumers have reached a mental staturation level when it comes to print advertising.

 

Articles and well crafted, key message rich (not just SEO) content is capable of engaging the reader and building interest and brand loyalty, as well as promoting a call to action where appropriate.

 

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Perhaps, but combine an interesting infographic or other type of image with captivating copy and you have a powerful instrument of engagement (and the distinct possibility of sharing across the social media landscape).

 

Nuff said.

 

 

Randy Bauer's curator insight, May 15, 4:07 PM

I am sponging on the learning process of content marketing. While I should be hiring somebody to do this for me, I believe that I must understand what impacts the content of my clients, and potential clients.

Infographics are a great outline, and this one provides much content.

Kris DaCosta-Jamaica Tourist Board's curator insight, May 17, 11:43 AM

90% of organizations use #Content Marketing....its not the future.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Innovative Leadership: It Starts With Words [& Stories]

Innovative Leadership:  It Starts With Words [& Stories] | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Innovation leadership needs to start early. Freshman writing may be as good a place as any.
Karen Dietz's insight:

This post is a related topic to storytelling -- it's an article that helps inform us about the need for storytelling and when working with stories needs to start in our careers.


The author, Henry Doss, makes the point that reflection is an essential leadership skill. Reflection is also an essential ability for crafting and telling compelling stories. Reflection allows the multiple meanings of the story to emerge. Reflection allows the key message to be known. Reflection allows the story to shift and change over time.Doss says that the ability to reflect can start early on -- in freshmen writing classes.


That's why he says Innovation Leadership starts with words, because for students this is "their first exposure to personal growth that is essential to leadership." Storytelling and writing skills are more than just language skills. They are a place of inquiry, as Doss says.


There are other points Doss makes in this article and it is worth the read -- especially for anyone in leadership or anyone in education.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

cvalleva's curator insight, May 11, 6:24 AM

"Evita complejidades innecesarias"

Ozzie Gontang, Ph.D.'s curator insight, May 11, 6:17 PM

Actually it starts with the way that I think. My thinkiandrogen influences who I am. Who I am influences what I do. The writing part comes from my thinking and my being. Reading Lee Thayer's book Leadership Virtuosity would be very helpful in seeing leadership from this aspect and all its many other perspectives.

Linda Allen's curator insight, May 13, 8:51 PM

Excellent!

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Where to find those stories??

Where to find those stories?? | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Scouring for Stories. GiftWorks is fundraising donor management software that helps nonprofit organizations.
Karen Dietz's insight:

Here's a quick post about where to find stories about your organization that you can then share with others.


It is written for nonprofits, but frankly any organization can use the same tips.


If you get stuck wondering where to find stories, then check this list. Start with your employees and have a story gathering session where you share a story and then use a story prompt to get the ball rolling ("Tell me about a time when...").


Don't have employees? Then gather friends, vendors, select customers and others close to your business who can share their stories with you about what you do and the difference your product/service makes. 


Some of these tips require a bit of work and preparation. But it will be worth it. Stories are fun and rewarding -- to collect and listen to. 


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

How to Focus Your Stories for Higher Conversion Rates

How to Focus Your Stories for Higher Conversion Rates | Just Story It | Scoop.it
When faced with creating a conversion-focused SEO landing page, what should our copy focus on?
Karen Dietz's insight:

I read this article and immediately thought "Wow! This is helpful for knowing how to focus stories in the sales process!"


It is written using the lens of crafting landing pages and converting readers. But don't let that stop you! The chart works for any kind of marketing/sales activity.


The less an audience knows about your product or service, says the author Brian Massey, the more you need to use stories to create awareness. Massey suggests that the more your audience knows you, the focus shifts to product and price info -- and stories are less essential.


Well, OK -- to a point. When focused solely on conversion or making the sale, I'll agree. But if you subscribe to relationship marketing -- that's connecting with prospects and turning them into loyal customers by building a long-term relationship with them (for ongoing sales), then keep telling stories all the way along the relationship matrix.


For example, in this chart when people are Most Aware of your product/service, then the stories you share are all about your customers. Product and price messages will only go so far. Share stories about your customers using your product/service and how their lives are different as a result.


For us biz storytellers, use the chart by adding 'stories' before each category along the bottom of the line:

  1. Stories about product & price -- and customers
  2. Stories about discoutns & deals -- and customers
  3. Stories about claims and proof
  4. Storis about benefits and anxieties


I hope this article gives you both ideas, and greater confidence how to focus your biz storytelling in the sales and conversion process! 


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Patricia Stitson's curator insight, May 8, 12:56 PM

Reminds me of the 'flipped classroom' or learner centric model. 

Karen Dietz's comment, May 10, 12:09 PM
Thanks for your input Annette and I love what your client did! Glad this matrix proves helpful.
Karen Dietz's comment, May 10, 12:10 PM
Thank you Amy and Patricia for your comments also! Both are insightful.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Why your brain loves music [& stories]

Why your brain loves music [& stories] | Just Story It | Scoop.it
New neuroscience study sets out to explain why in some respects music offers the same sort of pleasure as a really good thriller.
Karen Dietz's insight:

I love reading about topics related to storytelling and music is definitely one of those.


So here is a wonderful article about how our brains and bodies interact with music. And what is going on in the brain regarding music is almost identical to storytelling!


I like how the article talks about being overwhelmed by a story (that's happened to me), and talks about the notions of 'pleasant surprise' along with 'thwarted expectation'.


And the final point is the kicker: some of the recent studies are too simplistic. As the author Ivan Hewett says, "What we need is a proper dialogue between musicians and scientists; then we might learn something really profound." 


I agree. Too often the studies are simply validating what we already know to be true. This is a necessary step in the research around both music and storytelling. But I think both Hewett and myself are looking for meatier stuff that delivers that 'pleasant surprise' and more.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Karen Goldfarb Copywriter's curator insight, May 3, 1:18 PM

We are always trying to work out where the music or copywriting / story is heading, and enjoy the journey even if we're wrong. "There is pleasure even in being deceived."

Mirjana Podvorac's curator insight, May 4, 2:08 PM

Some new research on some things teachers have known and used for a long time.

Nimah Nirvanova's curator insight, May 7, 9:27 AM

brainy fun

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Crafting Your Talk/Story for TED or TEDx

Crafting Your Talk/Story for TED or TEDx | Just Story It | Scoop.it
A good short talk presents one idea, tells one story, and asks one question.
Karen Dietz's insight:

What a powerful article with a very simple idea: a winning structure to use for a 15-20 minute presentation!


If you are going to speak at TED or TEDx, or if you need to boil down an hour-long presentation to 15-20 minutes, how do you do it?


By following the 3 steps in the article. Written by Nick Morgan who works in public speaking, I think his advice really works.


And story is front and center. Now how great is that?!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Alison Gilbert's curator insight, May 2, 4:12 PM

I'd love to talk at a TED or TEDx conference.

Renee Baribeau's curator insight, May 10, 11:34 AM

Thanks for sharing..

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Storied Websites: How Eric Ries and Tim Ferriss tell stories on the web

Storied Websites: How Eric Ries and Tim Ferriss tell stories on the web | Just Story It | Scoop.it
If you want to highlight a product, build a landing page. If you're an internet marketing guru, make a squeeze page. But if you want to start on online movement -- and maybe sell a few books, speak...
Karen Dietz's insight:

Now here is a new and revolutionary way to actually design a website that is a story, and tells a story.


Wow -- how great! As author John Koetsier says, Eric Ries of The Lean Startup and author Tim Ferris of The 4-Hour Body have figured out how to do this. The article explains the new way to design websites, and gives examples so you can see the difference.


This is not about taking a website and adding stories to it. That's old school -- taking a structure and trying to fit stories into it. This is about changing the website structure so the entire design matches storytelling.


Go read the article to get the full explaination and the examples. It is really cutting edge. Hmmmm -- this is making me rethink my website once again!


What do you think?


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Using Cliffhangers: How to Keep Your Audience Reading/Listening

Using Cliffhangers: How to Keep Your Audience Reading/Listening | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Listen ... Just because you got people to read your headline doesn't mean your job is done. Nor is your job done if they read the first sentence. Or
Karen Dietz's insight:

Now here is an interesting article from Demian Farnworth at Copyblogger -- and it is all focused on how to create drama and intrigue in your business stories by using Cliffhangers.


Farnworth defines what cliffhangers are and how to use them in stories. Then he shares with us how to add them into our biz stories for maximum impact. Yeah!


He covers tips like:

Curiosity

Humor

Amazement

Doubt


Then he digs into internal cliffhangers that keep readers moving through non-fiction work (think data).


Very very handy -- and a great way to finesse your business storytelling to new levels in ways that will keep audiences listening/reading and engaged.


Go grab these insights and bring them into your storytelling, blogs, websites, and other content.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it 

Karen Dietz's comment, April 30, 11:48 AM
How great! I am happy you are finding different uses for the material here.
Teresa Carvalho's comment, May 1, 5:42 PM
Thanks for your comments. They're always useful.
Karen Dietz's comment, May 1, 7:31 PM
Thank you Teresa! Have a great day.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Hone "Strategic Patience" & Watch Your Story Creativity Spike

Hone "Strategic Patience" & Watch Your Story Creativity Spike | Just Story It | Scoop.it
An art history professor makes her students sit in front of a painting for three hours. PampG invents the Swiffer. Those events are more alike than...
Karen Dietz's insight:

When I work with clients and their biz stories, and their organizational culture, I often talk about the need to develop patience. I also discuss with them the principle of deceleration resulting in acceleration.


This article, written by Drake Baer, explains both the need for patience and the principle of deceleration in order to accelerate. I know, it sounds so counter-intuitive! But it works.


What does this have to do with storytelling? Because way too often we rush to craft our stories without giving ourselves time to patiently sit with them, think about them, recraft them, learn more about ourselves from them, etc. 


Spending the time to reflect on your story will get you to a more powerful piece more quickly. And your story creativity will definitely kick in by bringing more patience into the process.


This notion is rarely talked about in articles, but acknowledged as part of the story process among some top performance tellers.


So take a breath, relax, reflect, and give your creativity a chance to emerge.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

John Michel's curator insight, May 22, 4:51 PM

Deep patience. Close attention. These are not virtues often associated with college students (or some tech workers, for that matter). But as Harvard art history professor Jennifer L. Roberts recently explained, the skills for finding the "details, relationships, and orders that take time to see" can be introduced.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Share a Story, Help Create a New Perspective

Share a Story, Help Create a New Perspective | Just Story It | Scoop.it

Before I share his story—or more specifically, have him share his story—let’s talk briefly about why you want to use stories to help shift someone out of a stuck place.

Karen Dietz's insight:

Colleage David Lee shared this post with me and I think it's great because it reminds us again about how the stories we share in business can help create shifts and changes in people.


Lee shares a situation he had with a client, and how he used a story to help that person shift to a different place and resolve a long-standing issue.


While the post is about a coaching interaction and the power of story, I bet a good number of the busines stories you share have the same ability. Lee makes good points in the article that how stories can create both personal and organizational change.


Lee's post is perfect timing. I've just been re-reading the book "Influencer: The Power to Change Anything" by Kerry Patterson, et al (2008). It's all about storytelling and great stuff.


If you want to read more about how stories can influence people to shift, then read Lee's post. For a deeper dive, dig into "Influencer" (I have no relationship with the authors or their publisher, I just think it's a fab book!).


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Embed Your Biz Stories Anywhere With Cowbird's New Function

Embed Your Biz Stories Anywhere With Cowbird's New Function | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Cowbird has been used by the National Geographic and other outlets as a storytelling tool
Karen Dietz's insight:

Now here's a treat! The digital storytelling tool Cowbird has released new functionality.


You are now able to embed a story you create using their tool anywhere on the web -- complete with audio, sharing, handwriting, and more.


Here's the direct link to Cowbird: http://cowbird.com 


Way cool! Have fun making your biz stories with Cowbird, embedding them and sharing them all around.


Written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on busines storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it 

Jeff Domansky's curator insight, May 19, 9:39 PM

Storytelling tool worth a look.

Chris Agro's curator insight, May 20, 9:57 AM

Storytelling is the new black. I never heard of Cowbird but look forward to learning about it. 

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Story Trumps Description Every Time -- Wow! What A Difference!

Story Trumps Description Every Time -- Wow! What A Difference! | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Show rather than tell to motivate supporters to care, then act.
Karen Dietz's insight:

Hey, this is a quick article with a very powerful point -- a before and after make-over of a marketing piece. The 'before' promo was not a story. The 'after' promo is a story. And wow - can you experience the difference!


If you need a good example of what not to do, and then what to do, this is it. 


At the end of thea article are even more resources for you for telling your biz stories. They are all written for non-profits, but you will benefit just the same.


Enjoy!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Nursing Is Storytelling--Are there words of wisdom here for you too?

Nursing Is Storytelling--Are there words of wisdom here for you too? | Just Story It | Scoop.it
This guest post is by nurse Amy Dixon, who blogs at Creative RN, where it was originally posted on April 30. She attended a writing workshop last summer offered by the CHMP’s program in Narrative W...
Karen Dietz's insight:

This is an unusual post -- but it also reflects a side of business storyteling that rarely gets mentioned. It's the nitty-gritty side of hearing people share their stories.


All compelling stories are made up of conflict, strife, struggle, trouble and the like. It's not a story without it.


Yet the author here reminds us that it might not always be about happy endings -- and this can be just as powerful.


If our business stories are only about the successes or triumphs, are we in some ways denying parts of the soul that inform our humanity? I certainly have personal stories that don't have happy endings, yet they are still powerful for the lessons I learned that I share with others.


Hmmm -- this is a thought provoking article about storytelling. What do you get from it?


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Linking Words Words & More Words [Video]

Linking Words Words & More Words [Video] | Just Story It | Scoop.it
What do children at the park have to do with wooden actors on a stage or with a football coach at the whiteboard? What does a man out for a jog have to do with a leaky faucet or a car jumping a red light?
Karen Dietz's insight:

Storytelling is made up of words. Compelling storytelling is made up of words linked together that tickle the imagination, move a character along a series of events, over come challenges/struggle/trouble, and resolve a problem. 


But let's back up and focus on words and tickling the imagination. Here's a perfect short video that will expand your thinking. It may take you a few runs through to get all the connections. But it is fun and perfect for Friday!


How can you play more with words in your biz storytelling to add that extra edge?


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

3 Ways for How to Gather Biz Stories

3 Ways for How to Gather Biz Stories | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Three ways to gather powerful and persuasive stories from colleagues, customers, donors, grantees, and yourself for effective messaging.
Karen Dietz's insight:

Story professional and colleague Thaler Pekar wrote this helpful post that is a companion piece to the article I just curated on where to find stories in your organization: http://www.giftworksconnect.com/2013/04/scouring-for-stories/ 


What I love about Pekar's article is that the 3 ways she lists are more about effective processes for finding stories instead of a list of who to talk with.


She tackles evoking a story in person, tips for when someone writes a story for you, and then tips for videoing a story.


Again, this post is written for nonprofits, but the same tips apply to any type of business.


Between these 2 articles, I hope you find and capture the amazing stories that I know surround you!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

What's The Lesson for Both in The Story You Tell?

What's The Lesson for Both in The Story You Tell? | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Discover fresh insights about yourself, get closer to others, boost performance and other benefits you can glean from sharing meaningful stories about yourself and noticing the stories that others tell you that stick in your mind.
Karen Dietz's insight:

There's a flip side to business storytelling for those who want to go there: every time you tell a story, you get to find out a little more about yourself.


What??!! you say. Yep -- sharing your stories (at the entprise or entrepreneural level) not only has an impact on your audiences, it can also impact you if you let it. 


Each time we tell a story, we share it in a slightly different way, depending on the context and our audience. If we are open and paying attention, little shifts in meaning can occur.


Maybe you've been telling a particular story for awhile and you tell it a bit differently one time. Maybe a new piece of information came through, or a new memory, or a new message. You might have walked away from that experience saying, "Oh, now I know more about what that story is really all about!"


This article, written by Kare Anderson for Forbes focuses on just this topic. But from a completely different angle! She shares an amazing story about story and personal change and new meanings. It is worth reading. And it is inspirational too!


She provides 3 steps also to get us started. Enjoy thinking about your stories in this way -- not only about the lesson to share, but maybe there are hidden meanings for you waiting to be discovered!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

GE Tells The Stories Of The World’s Innovators With “Focus Forward”

GE Tells The Stories Of The World’s Innovators With “Focus Forward” | Just Story It | Scoop.it
GE is wrapping its 18-month long Focus Forward campaign--which launched at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival and has traveled a world of festivals in between--this week at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Karen Dietz's insight:

GE is providing is a great example of how to do content marketing with stories -- and doing it in such a way that the stories they share about others are front and center.


That means GE is promoting itself in soft ways by not screaming at people, "Here's what we are doing for you today!"


I love it. These are great stories and because GE is attached to them, they reap the rewards.


So what does this mean for you? Well, if you are an enteprise, the articles has great stats on how much GE has devoted to the campaign and how it's worked for them.


For a small business, the lesson is all about sharing the stories of how your customers are heros (not you), and that creating content with these stories is a real winner for your businss.


I also really like how this article also shares the steps to success in sharing someone else's story. The medium GE is using is digital storytelling. But the same tips apply to any business of any size.


And besides, it's Friday and the GE films are inpsiring. Follow the "Focus Forward" link to view them.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Denyse Drummond-Dunn's curator insight, May 4, 4:40 AM

Storytelling and video combined into one powerful campaign. Now that's what I call inspiration!

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

How to Use Metaphors for Way Better Biz Storytelling

How to Use Metaphors for Way Better Biz Storytelling | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Blog post at Enchanting Marketing : You know your writing needs to stand out.

You want to inspire your readers to take action, change their beliefs, or to buy something.
[..]
Karen Dietz's insight:

If you want to jazz up your biz storytelling, make a stronger impact, and get sticky, then using mephors is really critical.


I like this article because it not only gives a definition of what a metaphor is, the author then talks about where to find them and how to add them to your blog.


Then the author Henneke, in a stroke of genius, gives us the 3 common mistakes to avoid when using metaphors. Like don't mix your metaphors or you will be confusing. Yeah! 


Have fun spicing up your stories with metaphors and experiencing the difference they can make.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Denyse Drummond-Dunn's curator insight, May 2, 5:39 AM

Useful explanation of what metaphors are and why they can add spice to your storytelling. Thanks Henneke for the post and Karen for sharing.

Hamid Hameed's comment, May 2, 7:17 AM
interesting
Alison Gilbert's curator insight, May 2, 4:10 PM

The magic of metaphors.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Once Upon A Rock Star... Story Tips From Jimi Henrix' Ghost

Once Upon A Rock Star... Story Tips From Jimi Henrix' Ghost | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Done right, sharing information through stories makes a message sing like NOTHING else can do. I stumbled across Mark Hermann's Rock and Roll Zen blog.
Karen Dietz's insight:

What a terrific interview with musican/storyteller/blogger Mark Hermann about business storytelling.


I like his advice for website 'about' pages, his tip for going for more empathy to connect with audiences, and all of the stories he shares about his work and storytelling.


And he has terrific tips for different ways to craft stories to engage readers.


Kick back, relax, and enjoy reading this post with all the insights shared here.


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling atwww.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Jasmin Rez's curator insight, April 30, 5:37 PM

via @kdietz

Alison Gilbert's curator insight, May 2, 4:15 PM

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Anecdote: The world's best business story practitioners

Anecdote: The world's best business story practitioners | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Karen Dietz's insight:

Hey folks -- looking for a great biz story professional to help you or refer to someone else?


Then here's the list for you! My biz story colleague Shawn Callahan in Australia put together this awesome list.


I am honored to be in such great company, but frankly, I am more thrilled to see my fellow colleagues and friends on the list because I think they are awesome too. And I am happy to give them a shout out.


Everyone's website is listed by their name, so go explore. But mine is listed incorrectly, so go visit me at www.juststoryit.com 


And if you haven't heard yet, I'm writing "Business Storytelling for Dummies" with colleague Lori Silverman for Wiley Publishers that will be out this Fall. Yeah! I'll keep you posted. Right now it's nose to the grindstone to meet the writing deadlines :)


Happy day everyone!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it 

No comment yet.
Scooped by Karen Dietz
Scoop.it!

Strategy, Storytelling, and Being a Detective

Strategy, Storytelling, and Being a Detective | Just Story It | Scoop.it
Karen Dietz's insight:

Here's a short, quick but powerful recounting of how my colleague Shawn Callahan is using story, story elements, and story formats to help companies articulate their strategy. It is very informative!


We need more stories like this to help us all understand how powerful working with stories can be in different applications. I love the process Shawn used. In particular I like how he encourages his clients to stay in the questioning and possibilities stage before jumping into solution finding.


This is an underlying and profound place to remain because thinking gets clearer and sharper. And better pathways emerge for implementation than searching for the immediate quick answers.


What few people realize is that this is a little recognized story dynamic. If with our own business stories, if we are able to share our stories and at the same time understand that those stories are constantly in a state of flux and flow -- where understanding about their meanings and implications evolve over time -- then both the stories and the response to our environment improves.


Relating to our stories this way means we are in a continual state of discovery. Hmmmm, is the meaning of this story changing? What is the point of the story in the context I find myself in now? What is this story really pointing to? Are there other ways to tell this story that sheds a different light on the business?


BTW -- being in this place is kind of fun. It's like being a detective in a mystery book.


In our demand for immediacy, this can be a hard position to maintain. Yet it is an essential dynamic, and a quality of excellence, in storytelling. Relating to our stories from this place is the 'art' part of storytelling instead of the 'science' part of it.


Well, I hope this article and my little review gives you lots to think about.


What are your business stories continually teaching you? How can these insights help you with your strategies and generating solutions?


Thank you Shawn for this fabulous piece and the thought-provoking questions it generates!


This review was written by Karen Dietz for her curated content on business storytelling at www.scoop.it/t/just-story-it

Karen Dietz's comment, April 29, 11:22 PM
It's spam Jose! I've already deleted the multiple spam postings to my comments today.
Samantha Rissel's curator insight, April 30, 9:12 AM

How is business related to literature?  What cultural traits help us know more about our ventures?

Sarosh Daruwalla's curator insight, April 30, 9:51 AM

In an era where the quick fix is often celebrated, bringing in different perspectives to the table will only enhance the final decision making to be more focused and in the right direction.