Heroic twists

Tell a story they said. It will be fun they said. How to do it they did not say.

Telling a story is easier said than done because we have to be relevant, relatable and captivating. Mastering these challenges is easier if we consider three common elements: the storyline, character and conflict. The theme should be relevant to our target audience. Once identified, we should not herald it like a commandment but tell a tale about a character our audience can identify with. To add some action, the character should face one conflict at least, which may or may not be resolved at the end. Anecdotes are powerful and a bit like a perfume. Do not go for cheap solutions and use in small doses.

How to come up with exciting stories

• Write down examples of headlines a journalist may write to summarise your presentation. Select the one closest to your theme and most relevant to your audience.

• Choose a true incident illustrating your theme. Personalise it by including one leading character.

• Add a twist by letting the lead character encounter a conflict. You know that a twist is strong enough when the breath of your audience changes.

• Take it to the next level by going in medias res or following a petal structure

  • If you want to get attention right from the beginning, do not start with the context but the conflict. Kick off with a heated scene or provocative statement.
    (e.g. The Odyssey, James Bond movies, The Usual Suspects)

  • If you give a long speech, share the story of of 3-5 people. They do not have to know each other but there should be a connection. At the end, reveal the link and make your point.
    (e.g. Babel, Love Actually, #FemalePleasure)

Exercise

Explain the Corona virus (COVID-19) with a short story that either starts in medias res or feature several characters.

Learn the techniques. Boost your confidence. Make your point.
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