Storytelling is essential-whether you're trying to get a promotion, a new job, or simply make a lasting connection. It is a proven fact that everyone loves a story. Personal anecdotes bring people together and strengthen ties with your listeners.Keep these six secrets of good storytelling in mind.

A Story: The Most Powerful Way To Connect

<ul><li>Don't rush your delivery.</li><li>Give your audience time to process what you are saying and react to it.</li><li>Speaking slowly creates an aura of suspense.</li><li>Be genuine, show that you are delivering something that is meaningful to you, and the audience will respond in kind.</li></ul>

Tell Your Story Well

Build your story chronologically: with a past, present, and future:Past: "I've always loved people, and that's why I'm passionate about this job in HR. I was outgoing and extrovertish even when young."Present: "In my last two HR positions, I have developed programs that make employees feel safe and engaged. One program I am particularly proud of is our Mental Health offering."Future: "This job is my dream job, and as an HR professional I know I would be a great fit for this role."

Let It Flow

<ul><li>Talking about ourselves releases dopamine, a hormone that can be dangerous if you’re rambling.</li><li>Keep your narrative short and to the point.</li><li>Don’t turn a short story into a long and winding verbal road.</li></ul>Example: Suppose you’re in a job interview and the recruiter says, “Tell me about a problem you solved.” You get excited and go on about every facet of the problem you solved. Five minutes later you’re still speaking—but now you’ve lost your audience (and job).

Be Brief

<ul><li>The best point to make is one that is inspiring and uplifting</li><li>Telling stories that inspire with a clear, uplifting point is a great skill</li><li>Tell a story about how inspired you were when you first met the person you are honouring today</li></ul>

Make a point

<ul><li>Every story you tell about yourself should end with some kind of action or resolution. If you are mentoring someone and you’re sharing a story about what you learned from your first boss, end with an upbeat and meaningful action.</li><li>The end is the action that embodies the moral of the story—the lesson learned.</li></ul>Example: "And so, what I learned, and what I'd like to see you do, is to lead no matter what your position in the company."

Ending With A Call To Action

<ul><li>The best stories get listeners involved in the tale emotionally.</li><li>Make the main character someone the audience can relate to.</li><li>Pretend you are the victim, and the audience is with you all the way.</li><li>Tell a story about how you were walking your French bulldog and someone tried to grab that little pup in an off-leash park.</li></ul>

Engage With The Listener's Emotions

Storytelling is essential—whether you’re trying to get a promotion, a new job, or simply make a lasting connection.