Business Communication. Sharpen your communication skills.

Discover the art and science of storytelling and learn how to create compelling narratives for all types of business communication including advertising, content marketing, presentations and reports.

When crafting a story for business use, it’s common to be literal in your word choices, which can produce some uninteresting results. This course will explain how inserting certain language can make your stories more lively, interesting and entertaining.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

• discuss the science of storytelling and why our brains are wired for stories
• extract stories and understand how to relate them to your business
• write stories for all areas of your business
• implement a storytelling ethos in your workplace.

Content

Summary

• The science of storytelling
• Five types of stories
• Nine narrative forms
• Seven basic plots
• Story elements – theme, character and conflict
• Story structure – the three acts
• Storytelling with data

Session 1: Storytelling

This session focuses on the science of storytelling, specifically the science behind why our brains are wired for story, the benefits of using story within the business environment and examples of organisations using storytelling successfully within their companies.

Session 2: Story development

We will explore the different types of story and narrative forms and learn how to use them within the business context. You will participate in a series of group and individual tasks that require you to analyse story case studies and think about how you can adapt them to communicate your business stories.

Session 3: Story time

You will work on a practical example to create an inspiring business story using the key principles and practices learned throughout the day. This can be an example of your own choosing or you can select one of the examples provided by the trainer. You will present your story to the group for feedback.

Intended audience

Suitable for team leaders, managers and senior managers who are looking to develop their storytelling techniques. It is suitable for those employed within all sectors including not-for-profits, charities and community groups.

Delivery modes

• Face-to-face, presenter-taught workshop
• Online workshop via the platform Zoom

Delivery style

Delivered as an interactive workshop, where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and have them answered by an experienced facilitator.

Materials

Course materials are provided electronically using Dropbox.