Even better than learning how to be a compelling storyteller, I encourage you to also hone the skill of being a great story-listener. People are starved to be heard, so when you get them talking about special things or events in their life this will create a stronger relationship between you and them.
So…here are a few questions you can use to “dig” for stories!
- What’s your favorite comfort food and who it connected to?
- What’s an achievement or special credential you’re really proud of?
- Describe a special object you’d grab if a fire broke out in your home or office.
- Tell me about one of the toughest life challenges you’ve lived through.
- When was a big ah-hah/light-bulb moment when you realized or discovered something which changed your life (or business)?
- What was one of the funniest or craziest things you’ve done or had happen to you?
- What was one of the most positive things that ever happened to you?
- What was one of the nicest things you have ever done for somebody else?
- Who is a favorite person you know personally and why?
- Who is your favorite hero or historical person from the past and why?
Listen to what they say. And, before you jump in with your own story, pause and say…”Really! Tell me more!”