THE recession is all in our minds; it is not really happening.
While many might find that statement laughable, it is what I use as a business coach to motivate my clients.
"I work with my clients to totally disregard what is going on and they are energised and focused on their goals," I say. "Disregarding means that you carry on and do your best; improve what you are doing and people will come to you."
While many might find that statement laughable, it is what I use as a business coach to motivate my clients.
"I work with my clients to totally disregard what is going on and they are energised and focused on their goals," I say. "Disregarding means that you carry on and do your best; improve what you are doing and people will come to you."
In the coming year of challenges and uncertainties, there is one certainty. The people in any business or organisation are generally the biggest cost – and the biggest asset. Making the connection across the whole business really makes sense!
When times are tough, people often turn to what they know best or what they are comfortable with. While business has not really understood the power of storytelling and some may think it’s just “soft stuff”, the use of narrative has shaped our development throughout the history of man and has been a significant factor in shaping our philosophies, beliefs, and behaviours.
Why is storytelling so powerful? Put quite simply, people remember stories.
“Stories motivate, persuade, entertain, inform and inspire us. Stories are engaging and help us to share information and ideas. We tell and hear stories every day in our lives.
Compelling stories have far-reaching emotional impact, and a far longer shelf-life than the dry, abstract, one-way methods of communication that clutter businesses today. Stories have a powerful role to play in influencing and changing behaviours, recognising ‘heroes’, demonstrating progress and celebrating success.
Through the emotional impact and self- discovery of a story’s implication they help us understand and make sense of what we do and why we do it – and recognise what we need to do differently. Stories provide the means for people within an business or organisation to replicate excellent behaviours and activities.”
Using storytelling will give managers and business owners the tools to step up in their role, to demonstrate true leadership and espouse the journey that the business needs to take, to show that they are in control and to enthuse and motivate their employees.
So what is your story? Spend some time now, to reflect and develop your story and see the difference it makes in your workplace.
With thanks to The Storytellers (UK) and Margaret Harrison, Our HR Company.
