Thirty Second Introductions – Element Two

I remember my days as a student in college. Sometimes these days seem eerily like those. As I sat in the sun drenched courtyard munching on a chilidog from the nearby street vendor, I remember thinking, “I really should be studying.”

Somehow the dry facts and figures of the physics chapter seemed far less alluring than the novel I had tucked away in my backpack. As I often sat in that courtyard between physics and calculus, I often had to choose between the textbooks and the novel. I was not a very good student and I’m sorry to report the novel won the hour more often than the texts.

Now in my business, no matter what else I’m doing, I should be marketing; on the phone, face to face, in networking groups, and online. That pervasive feeling of obligation is still there.

The allure of a good story also still wins the hour over dry facts and figures. In fact, I believe that I am not very different than most of us in that regard. A story is a treat. I remember sitting in bed with Mom next to me, all warm under the blankets with a “Little Golden Book” in her hands. Later, as reading opened up that gateway to imagination, a good book was never very far away.

We all enjoy being transported out of our mundane lives if even for a second to stretch the imagination away from the dry facts and figures that seem to rule our world.

Following these thoughts, are you getting your audience’s attention in your thirty seconds only to lose it, as you passionately extol the benefits of your business in facts and figures? Telling a story that paints the picture of success using your product will create a stronger impression than listing a stream of benefits hoping that one will strike a cord with your listener.

Another way to spin a story is to create a metaphor. Show by story the true value proposition of your business. This is a tall order in the 15 seconds set aside for the task. There are techniques to learn and master in using your time wisely and spinning a tale that will captivate your listener.

Dave
David@VistaGroupLtd.com
www.vistagroupltd.com

Posted via email from David Bartos’ Post