We’re all wired for story.
From the moment we first listened to tales as children, to the conversations we have in meetings, networking events, or interviews. Stories shape how we connect, understand, and influence each other.
Yet in professional settings, too often we default to linear, bland ways of speaking:
“I worked on a project,”
“I delivered results,”
“I handled a client.”
These statements are true, but they don’t stick, invite others in or leave ripples.
Through some recent work with a global organisation during their career development month, I’ve been exploring how employees can tap into their natural storytelling abilities to make their communication more memorable, engaging, and human.
It boils down to three practical ways stories can be used in everyday professional contexts:
- Networking: turning introductions into journeys
A simple introduction doesn’t have to be flat. By framing your experience as a story, even a brief one, you can draw the listener in.
Share a challenge you overcame, a curiosity you followed, or a moment that shifted your perspective. Adding small descriptive touches or metaphors allows others to step into your experience with you. Even small shifts in language, adding curiosity, emotion, or imagery, can create connection and leave a lasting impression.
- Interviews: transforming projects into stories
When talking about your work, it’s easy to stick to facts and outcomes. But framing your experience as a narrative or journey, helps others understand not just what you did, but how you approached it and the value you brought.
Highlighting the challenges, insights, and small wins transforms the linear story into something memorable, human, and inspiring.
- Meetings and briefings: navigating change with story
Even routine updates or project briefings can be elevated with storytelling. A small shift in how you describe a situation or decision can spark empathy, understanding, and engagement. Through metaphor and subtle emotion, you invite listeners to experience the journey with you rather than just hear about it.
The magic of storytelling is that it leaves ripples.
By taking everyday professional moments and framing them as stories, you create connection, spark engagement, and leave people remembering not just what you said, but how it made them feel.
I’ve seen it in action: small shifts in words and structure can change the way people are perceived, how teams collaborate, and how opportunities unfold. From Pharma, to Finance to Food and Hospitality.
And the best part?
The skill is already inside you, you just need to notice it, shape it, and share it.
Storytelling isn’t just for stage or screen. It’s for meetings, interviews, and networking events. It’s for leaving ripples wherever you go.
Want to tell stories? Contact me hello@helenpackham.com and let’s chat.
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