How Storytelling Can Transform Your Connections

This week, I had an unforgettable session with one of my clients. She’s a lawyer—sharp, articulate, and, frankly, intimidating. Every time we meet, I make sure I’m as prepared as possible because she pushes me to be my best.

Her goal? To improve her conversational skills and build stronger connections.

We’ve been working on storytelling, and during our latest session, something clicked for her. Midway through, she said:

“My stories don’t work because I use them to intimidate and scare people.”

That moment changed everything. Her tone shifted, and she admitted that reframing her stories into something more vulnerable and relatable—like the Hero’s Tale—would be a significant challenge.

Here’s why this matters:

Storytelling isn’t about being impressive or intimidating. It’s about connection. It’s about showing a part of yourself that others can relate to, even admire. When you share your vulnerability, you lead with authenticity—and people respond to that.

If you’re looking to improve your storytelling, here are some tips to get started:

Relatable Characters

Use characters that others can connect with, even if they’re fictional. A "friend of mine" or "someone I know" works wonders for engagement.

Clear Structure

Every story benefits from a structure: setup, conflict, resolution. This format keeps people engaged and ensures your story has a clear takeaway.

Personal Connection

Sharing your experiences—or even a touch of humor—makes your stories memorable. Vulnerability draws people in.

Vivid Details

Small sensory details bring your story to life without making it overly complicated.

Hook the Listener

Start with something intriguing, like “Have you ever...?” or “The other day, I...”. A good hook sparks curiosity.

Engaging Emotion

Include elements that make people feel something—whether it’s laughter, surprise, or inspiration.

Clear Purpose or Takeaway

End your story with a meaningful point. Whether it’s to teach, inspire, or simply entertain, a good story leaves an impression.

Storytelling challenges us to step out of our comfort zones. It asks us to look inward and find the stories that connect us to others on a human level. When you’re willing to lead with vulnerability, you don’t just share a story—you create a connection that lasts.

Are you ready to tap into the power of storytelling in your everyday conversations? Start small, be honest, and see how your connections transform.

Let me know how it goes!