Mastering Presentation Storytelling: Strategies and Tips for Effective Story Sharing

Welcome back to our discussion storytelling in presentations. After sharing my "unpopular" opinion on using photos in presentations, I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response. The community's curiosity is apparent, and today I'm here to answer the most asked questions and comments.

1. The Slide Dilemma:

Many of you asked, “If I’m not showcasing a direct photo of the story on the screen, what should I use instead? Should it say ‘story time’?" The simple answer is, no. Instead, incorporate a relevant stock photo (websites like UNSPLASH offer fantastic free options). For instance:

• A golf game story? Opt for a golf course or ball image.

• An office anecdote? A stock photo of an office exterior or cubicles is apt.

• Sharing a Halloween story about your kids? Instead of their adorable costume-clad pictures, go with a jack-o-lantern candy bucket.

These images shouldn't be too personal; you want them to appear generic yet appealing. This way, you're telling the audience, "This is a universal narrative, not just the speaker's tale."

2. Using Photos as Mental Cues:

I get it! You use the photo as a mnemonic tool. "This is where the story goes," you remind yourself. Thankfully, even a generic image can serve this purpose. It can act as a cue for the narrative's placement without detracting from its universality.

3. Chasing the Laugh:

Here's a revelation: It's delightful when audiences laugh at a humorous picture, but is it worth it if the image diminishes the story's long-term impact? If attendees only remember the comical image and not the narrative's essence, you've traded depth for a fleeting moment of amusement. Emphasize rich storytelling instead, and you can have the audience laughing and co-creating the story with you.

4. Understanding “Show, Don’t Tell”:

This advice often confounds presenters. Originating in literary circles, it encourages authors to paint vivid pictures with words rather than offering a mere rundown. In presentation terms, this doesn't mean flashing an image but enriching your story with details. So, if you wish to "Show, don't tell" on stage, delve deeper into your storytelling skills.

5. Story Ownership:

There's a recurring sentiment: "I want the audience to SEE and FEEL my experience." Remember, while the anecdote might stem from your experiences, the moment you present it, it's about the audience. By avoiding personal photos, you allow listeners to integrate their own memories and feelings, making the story more about them and less about the presenter.

Lastly, weigh the real importance of a photo for your audience, not for your personal validation. At times, the saying rings true – a picture isn't always worth a thousand words.

Thank you for your insightful queries! I'm thrilled to continue sharing storytelling advice, and eagerly await the impactful narratives you're bound to craft.