For startups, data is everything—from valuation figures to business performance, growth to market share. But not everyone works like that. To get your customers or other stakeholders to really understand what you are doing and how well you are doing it, you need more than data. You need a compelling story. Stories help us relate better, connect better and ultimately, build brand love. In today’s digital-first environment, where everyone connects directly with a brand, storytelling is even more critical.

Cracking the code for effective communication

Fun fact I: Our brains become more active when information and facts are shared as a story.

A good story makes the reader want to come back for more and that is exactly what a startup founder should aim to do. In the nascent stages of any business, how you narrate your story makes a significant difference. People remember you for what you do as much as what you say. While the pathbreaking innovations by a startup give birth to a customer, a well-written story helps build a larger audience base. The foundation of a great storytelling strategy rests in the 2Is of engaging with the audience – Inspire and Influence.

Business storytelling is a craft that should impact not just your target audience but also help potential customers and the public in general remember your brand. Think of all the times you remembered a brand for its story, even if you aren’t a consumer of that brand.

Crafting a memorable and compelling storyline

Fun fact II: In the 14th century, the word story referred to an account believed to be true.

People are constantly looking for authenticity, truth, and a personal touch in the content they engage with. Be it on online news or social media platforms. Building a strong narrative with the right messaging is as important as building an impactful business. Needless to say, both, the business and its story should complement each other.

• What’s the insight: Before you start, remember, the stories we are talking about are not creative writing exercises. These are stories to persuade your target audience towards your point of view or product. For that, your story must be based on an insight—a human truth that the audience is facing that needs to be addressed.
• Creating a solid structure as the first step: Language supports a story but what makes it truly memorable is how it is structured. Make sure your messages are not scattered. Rather, the points of communication should flow systematically to build a strong narrative.
• Don’t rush: Take time in communicating. Build the right pace in your story. Ensure transparency, honesty, and reality in your story.
• Hold the reins tight: Giving away the essence in the beginning can disinterest the reader. Always craft your storytelling strategies such that the impact is created, and the reader is left wanting for more. At the same time, understand that attention spans are short, so you can’t make them wait for too long either.

Let there be a grand ending

When a perfect storytelling strategy is in place and you have found the right words to narrate your story, let the PR pros go a step further and help you determine the relevant platforms to present it. Deciding the best vehicle to drive a story is equally important for it to reach the target audience and as mentioned earlier, potential customers and people in general.

Remember, people may forget facts, lists, and bullets but never a well-written story.

Read Our More Blog: 5 PR Mistakes Startups Should Avoid When Communicating