How to Inspire Action With Your Story

A well-told story creates an itch for others – an eagerness to join forces, to take on something big, or to do things differently. You can get people moving, even inspire a movement, with your organization’s story.

Here’s how: 

– Consider mission. How you approach the story will show the public what is most important to your organization. What do you ache to share with the world? Stories of tremendous unmet need? Tales of hope and possibility? Let all signs point to the reason why you (and your team) get up every morning.  

– Connect with others. Everybody shares basic relatable emotions. Your audience, whether CEOs, clients or unknown passersby, know fear, joy, worry, and relief. So let these feelings bubble to the surface of your stories. Give your audience something with which to identify and relate.  

– Choose the right medium. While some stories lend themselves well to the written word, others need more visuals, such as video and photography. Figure out which medium matches your narrative. Once you’ve decided on the most compelling format, make your story sharable by posting it in its digital form in as many places as possible.  

– Call people to action. If you want to inspire someone to act, let them know! Tell people what needs or opportunities exist and how they can give, volunteer, or otherwise get involved. The next chapter in your story may be theirs to tell.