“Humans are not ideally set up to understand logic; they are ideally set up to understand stories.”
Roger C. Shank’
Cognitive scientist

When leader give speeches that are all about facts and figures, they may be missing the boat on how people learn and retain information. Studies in adult learning have shown that when adults listen to a speech, they are always looking for an answer to the question ‘ what does that mean (to me)?’ Stories are a great way of connecting the dots so that facts and figures are put into context.

Here are 5 reasons why leaders should make a concerted effort to integrate stories or anecdotes into their speeches:

1. Makes your presentation more engaging, persuasive and memorable

Stories provide instant connections between leader and audience by grabbing the audience’s attention and interest. Well told stories can stimulate emotions in the audience to the point where they empathize with the characters. When leaders take their audiences on a speaking journey, they then have tremendous influence over the audiences thought process and behavior. The audience may not remember slide #47 after the speech but they will remember your great stories.

2. Makes you human and trustworthy

Some leaders may be reluctant to share some of their personal stories, perhaps with the fear that the story may show a vulnerable side that may be perceived as weakness. Applicable, appropriate stories allow audiences to connect to you on a deeper level that builds credibility and trust. When your staff hears that you are not perfect, they are far more likely to relate to you.

3. Helps with challenging people’s minds without being confrontational

Stories can be used as a powerful teaching and coaching tool. They can be used to challenge limiting beliefs, attitudes and perceptions without triggering resistance and defensiveness.

4. Opens people’s minds to new possibilities

There are times that direct communication approaches to new ideas or recommendations will be met with resistance. Stories provide a way to take the audience on a journey that allows audiences to listen and absorb new ideas or new plans of action without defending their limitations.

5. Use as tool to transmit values and impart organization’s vision for the future

Stories can be effective tools for reinforcing values and traditions within an organization. They can also be used as way to have the audience envision where the organization may go in the future.

Remember these tips when you craft your next presentation.