Storytelling: Creating and Communicating Compelling Narratives (G059)

Complete List > Storytelling

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This one-day workshop has been designed for all communicators: professional and non-professional. In particular, it has been created for those who already understand the potential of stories and narratives and who would like to learn more about building better understanding and incorporating compelling narratives into their work.

Participants taking part in this dynamic workshop will have the opportunity to craft a three to five minute organizational change, internal or external communications story and to participate in an interactive storytelling sessions.

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?

Stories and narratives are one of the most powerful tools available to us. They have the potential to educate, motivate and activate listeners from all walks of life. Stories and narratives are economical, reliable, easy to use and, most importantly, outcome-driven. A well-crafted story or political narrative has the power to transport the listener from a place of comfort and familiarity to an entirely new location where he or she is ready, willing and waiting to take action.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

By attending this workshop you will better understand and become more knowledgeable about the role of stories and narratives in all aspects of communications. You will learn about the psychology that underlines all storytelling. And, you will learn how to differentiate the soft side of storytelling from punch-packing political narratives.

You will strengthen your knowledge and skills through presentations, discussions and case study exercises. The focus of the workshop will be on:

• Understanding the concepts of storytelling in internal and external communications;
• Learning about the psychology behind storytelling;
• Knowing how to use hard-hitting narratives to capture and sustain listeners’ attention;
• The role of the ‘Springboard Story’ in organizational change; and
• The skills and techniques required to enhance story creation and storytelling abilities.

WHAT WILL YOU TAKE AWAY?

• Workbook, handouts and references

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMPETENCIES

• Engagement: Working effectively with people, organizations, partners
• http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/tal/kcl/ekl-eng.asp

Agenda
8:45 - 9:30	Introduction to Storytelling: Once Upon a Time... During this introductory session, key concepts will be defined and further elaborated. Participants will discuss the dynamic set of interactions that make storytelling possible.
9:30 - 10:15	The Fundamentals of Story Telling and Communications Participants will learn about the relationship between storytelling and communications.
10:15 - 10:30	Break
10:30 - 11:15	The Psychology Behind Storytelling Participants will focus on the dynamic interrelationship of the storyteller and the listener. The discussion will move from simple storytelling to the role of direct and indirect narratives.
11:15 - 12:15	Storytelling Preparation Session The participants will discuss the merits of the story ideas identified in response to the pre-workshop 'thinking assignment'. Each group will determine which story ideas will be developed into a three to five minute story. The group will refine each story idea further and identify the storytellers.
12:15 - 13:00	Lunch
13:00 - 13:45	The Essentials of Story Preparation and Delivery Participants will learn how to identify and build a story and will discuss a range of tried and tested storytelling techniques.
13:45 - 14:45	The Political Side of Storytelling Participants will learn how political narratives are used to capture peoples' attention and to change peoples' views. Participants will also discuss the role of stories in organizations including the role of the 'Springboard Story'.
14:45 - 15:00	Break
15:00 - 16:00	Taped Presentations and Feedback Each participant will practice her/his story and prepare to present the selected stories to the workshop participants. The workshop participants will discuss each of the presented stories.
16:00 - 16:30	Wind Down and Evaluation Participants will discuss the lessons learned and complete a short evaluation of the workshop.