Mia Culpa. My apologies for sending out this newsletter a day late. I took some time off to watch the opening of the football season, and then a friend invited me to the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows. I know some will understand, and for those who don't, please ask any sports fan.
Yes, this week's newsletter is another one about the power of storytelling. If you've ever felt like your coaching sessions seem to be missing something, read on and see if this will inspire you to engage more intimately with your clients or in anything you write.
I think I've mentioned a few times before that stories form a connection that is more powerful than advice, information, or anything else that you communicate with others. The basics of any story are where you've been, where you are, and where you hope to go.
So, let's take a look at a different way to convey your story.
The Power of Interactive Storytelling
Most people know how to tell a story, but technology has given us new tools to make our stories more engaging. Imagine that your client is not just a listener but an active part of the story. Interactive storytelling allows people to step into the narrative, making choices that shape the outcome. It's an experience that's uniquely theirs, deepening their engagement and turning lessons into AHA moments.
What is Interactive Storytelling?
Interactive stories invite your clients to be more than passive listeners. It gets them involved in the challenges and decisions needed to create the ending they desire. For example, you might describe a character facing a dilemma similar to what your client is going through. At key points, you pause and ask them, "What should the character do next?" Their response will determine where the story goes and will change what comes next. In e-learning, we call this Scenario-based learning, where one answer can change the course and create an experience that makes them feel in control of any situation.
Why It Works
People are naturally drawn to stories, especially when they can influence the outcome. By giving clients this sense of control, interactive storytelling can:
Increase engagement: When clients are part of the story, they stay focused and invested.
Enhance learning: Active participation increases retention exponentially.
Build personal connection: Intertwining your decisions, whether the same or different, can foster more trust and a deeper connection.
Practical Tips to Get Started
Use scenarios: Pose situations where clients make decisions that influence the story's direction. Then, go over what decisions you would have made. This will lead to a powerful dialogue that will help both of you. Remember, there are different ways to get to the same outcome, and what's right for one person may not always work for another.
Leverage technology: Try tools like interactive eBooks, self-directed eLearning courses, and apps to add a dynamic edge.
Create multiple endings: Offer different outcomes so clients can explore various solutions and learn from them.
Accountability through Storytelling
Interactive storytelling isn't just about engagement—it's a powerful way to foster accountability. When clients make choices within a story, they begin to see the ripple effects of their decisions. Mirroring real-life situations can create a better way to foster responsibility, commitment, and follow-through.
Here's how you can bring accountability into your storytelling:
Choice-driven outcomes: Design stories where each decision leads to different results, showing clients the impact of their actions.
Feedback and milestones. After the story, ask your clients to reflect on their choices and discuss how they relate to real-life goals. Also, ask for feedback on what they thought of this approach.
Goal-oriented stories: Create narratives that mirror your client's objectives. That will help them practice decision-making in a safe space.
Interactive storytelling gives you the chance to make your coaching feel real and personal. Whether it's for boosting engagement, fostering accountability, or driving personal growth, it offers a fresh, dynamic way to connect with your clients.
We will be exploring how technology can help you create interactive stories using the latest technologies in our roundtable discussion coming up on September 19. Our clients have embraced these new tools, and we think everyone should at least learn what's available to them and then make their own decision on how to use them.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
PS – As a lifelong Jets fan (no laughing, please), I feel a spark of hope that this might be the season they break the curse that has haunted them since 1969.
All the best,
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