Storytelling is a universal tool. It can be used by anyone for nearly anything. Whether you’re trying to convert a lead; pitch your business to investors; or simply giving a presentation to your colleagues. Storytelling has become a well-used art within businesses all over the world and its popularity can be seen in the memorable output said companies.
We here at All Good Tales are firm believers of storytelling for business. We believe that great stories get more. Get more what you might ask? More attention. More funding. Even more sales.
So in this new series, we want to show you how people from all walks of life can use storytelling to better themselves and their business. This week, we’re looking at storytelling for startups
Startup companies are perfect for brand storytelling. They can shape their brand around their story very early on in the process and startups typically have a good story behind their product or service. They’ve had personal experiences which led to create innovative solutions to everyday problems. Those ‘saw it, fix it’ stories are used by some of the world’s most well known brands which we’ve come to use and love.
So you have your startup idea and you’ve a great story to tell. What is the next step? And how is this going to benefit the future of your business?
Stories from the heart of your brand, from the very beginning
We all notice when a brand changes something about them. Whether it be their appearance, their ethos, or even their products. It’s noticeable and can sometimes make us feel wary about change. It’s just human nature to react to change. So by building your brand story from the very beginning, you are taking their first steps in creating a memorable, trustworthy brand. For example, Patagonia, the world famous adventure clothing brand, has become what it is today due to the founder, Yvon Chouinard, experiences rock climbing in the west coast of the US and how that shaped his perception of the environment, leading to the creation of his products.
Ammo for pitches
As a startup, undoubtedly you will be spending a lot of time pitching to potential investors to help fund your new business. How you pitch your business is going to make or break your future. So how can you stand out and get investors to believe in your brand?
By telling the story behind your brand in your pitches, you create a moment between you and your potential investors. When you’re done, they’ll always remember your story. Once that is established, the other details (like the figures) will soon fall into place. Out of 100 pitches, almost 99 fall into the trap of just explaining their product in-depth and without consideration, rather than try to connect with who they’re pitching to. This is where the 1% thrive using the power of brand storytelling.
Need tips on presenting? We have some great advice for you!
Be recognisable
If people don’t know you already, you want to be able to hook them in as soon as they see you. Your story should be visible on your homepage, ready to catch the attention of those interested in working with you. Your story should be condensed into a singular mission and a singular vision, highlighting your goals, aims and reasons for both. Tell your story in as few words as possible for maximum effect.
Here at All Good Tales we are doing great work for brands like Kingspan, Glandore, Ancestry.com, and DAA, to name just a few. We are building brand newsrooms, executing exciting PR strategies, and training key staff how to source, structure and tell great stories. For more information please click here or call Gaye on (01) 254 1845.
