S3E2: Improve Your Storytelling With Jess Gardner

Leadership Voyage

Text Jason @ Leadership Voyage

Jess Gardner is a Storytelling and Communication Coach who specializes in helping professionals tell their stories more effectively. Many people struggle to find their voices and speak with confidence. She uses her expertise in communication and teaching to empower everyone to level up their careers through better communication and storytelling.

Jess started her private coaching business in 2017 and has worked with clients from Google, Uber, and Yelp. She has given workshops on storytelling for organizations such as AIGA, Women Talk Design, and Design Buddies. You can find her on LinkedIn or read more about her work at jessgardnercoaching.com.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessgardnercoaching/

https://jessgardnercoaching.com/

=====
When does storytelling matter?

• Presentations
• Public speaking
• Meetings
• Inspiring others through engagement and connection

Your audience

• Prepare for them
• Who is your audience, specifically?
• What’s your goal?
• What are their questions/concerns?
• What do you want to make them feel?
• Where do you want to lead them?

Grab the audience’s attention by hooking them early

• Do something unexpected
• Engage their curiosity
• Have them do something

Trying something new takes courage

• Watch Ted Talks and strong presenters
• Set your own goals for storytelling
• Be willing to try something and take quick feedback
• Practice on someone in your circle

Non-linear storytelling

• Just because something happened chronologically doesn’t mean that’s the only way to present it
• Lead with an unexpected result
• Tease up front with the most interesting thing
• Have a structure, use transitions, or guideposts
• You don't have to tell every detail!

Imagery in storytelling

• Often we’re too formal
• Use action verbs instead of passive voice
• Think about words that evoke emotion so the audience can relate
• Use analogies that people can envision

=====

Leadership Voyage
site: leadership.voyage
email: [e-mail]
youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeadershipVoyage
linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonallenwick/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-voyage-podcast/
music: by Napoleon (napbak)
https://www.fiverr.com/napbak
voice: by Ayanna Gallant
www.ayannagallantVO.com
==========

Instacart - Groceries delivered in as little as 1 hour.
Free delivery on your first order over $35.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.