Storytelling is all about persuasion, which itself lies at the heart of almost every business transaction.
Master these sales techniques
Here are some of the best storytelling techniques to help you close the sale:
1. From the horse’s mouth.
Find your happiest, most satisfied customers and ask them to share their stories publicly, whether it’s through an interview, social media or a blog post.
2. Use your imagination.
You may choose to go the fictional route, but make sure your story is based on reality. Focus on scenarios that let your target customer know you are aware of their problems, and you know how your product or service can fill that need.
3. Focus on the prospect.
No matter how amazing your product is, remember that the customer is king.
4. Use familiar language.
Avoid industry jargon and buzzwords. Use words and phrases that are relevant to your prospective customer, rather than using language that might complicate your story.
5. Share surprise benefits.
True customer stories often reveal unanticipated positive results that prospective customers may be completely unaware of.
6. Create drama.
The exciting stuff happens when you highlight the contrast between the customer’s current situation and the desired outcome that will take place once you have provided the solution.
7. Expand your inventory.
With multiple stories from which to choose, your product or service can be revealed as a solution for various problems in diverse industries and for a wide range of customers. Remember that a CIO has different needs from a sales manager. An ancient art
Finally, keep in mind that the art of storytelling is an ancient one that has five distinct elements: the passion with which it is told, a hero, an obstacle to overcome, a moment of awareness that allows good to prevail, and the transformation that naturally results.
