I am a storyteller. So when I purchased this book, I assumed it would help me write more engaging food and travel stories for magazines. But only 20 pages into the book, Simmons convinced me that storytelling is an even more powerful tool for left-brain corporate types.
The author cleverly peppers the entire book with numerous stories to convey her message. Storytelling is a shared experience, instantly connecting the storyteller to a group of listening strangers. It also connects the listener deeply to the message imparted. A trusted sales manager’s six-minute narration of his first year with the company drove home the message of integrity in the sales process more clearly than an hour-long PowerPoint presentation. Using a story, a plant manager respectfully gets his stubborn VP to be less fixated on overanalysing monthly charts, graphs and measurable outcomes.
Simmons’ background as a full-time corporate trainer-turned-storyteller allows her to seamlessly link the benefits of stories and the business world. The book establishes an appreciation of the mental and emotional process of storytelling. It addresses an emerging realisation that organisations need whole persons working for them, including the stories they bring. Storytelling is also able to create lasting influence and relationships with people.
The book clues in readers on the do’s and don’ts of storytelling as well as other resources to hone this skill. This book is a must-read for anyone who does public speaking and presentations. It is also a practical tool for anyone who wants to more effectively communicate with others. As I neared the last few pages of the books, Simmons strongly convinced me that there was a place for this writer’s storytelling skills, even in the serious corporate world.
Maida Pineda
