Register by September 24th and receive 30% off the regular $195 course fee.

In the fast-moving and complex world in which we live and work, it seems as if we all too often communicate on the run. With a lot to say and little time to say it, we relay our messages in bullet point form. As the speed and volume of information that comes our way increases with each new technological trend, how can we make our most important messages stand out from the crowd?

As leaders, we need to communicate clear and understandable information to our multiple audiences, as well as the meaning, purpose and relevance of that information to each listener. Stories are one way that we can make our most important messages stickier.

For more information, visit:  http://thestorymatrixforleaders101510.eventbrite.com.

[tags] organizational storytelling, leadership, communication, story workshop, leadership communication [/tags]

We all know a good story when we hear or read one. But, what makes a story good? Here are some tips I picked up from organizational storyteller and consultant Gerry Lantz at last year’s International Organizational Story Weekend in Washington, D.C.

Conflict

The best stories are about some kind of action driven by conflict. Stories drive us to an experience.

• What’s at stake?
• Who wants what?
• Why?
• How do they go about getting it?
• What challenges do they face and how do they overcome them?

The Frodo Factor

People like stories about people (not processes!) who make an extraordinary effort, struggle against the odds, and achieve exceptional results.

The Real World

Write or tell your story for the moment, not for all time. Write or speak about what you know – in the present. The universal is in the details. Be specific.

Be Authentic

Let your authentic self show through. Authenticity builds trust. Duplicity invites cynicism.

The Title Trick

Giving your story a title helps you to frame it, sets you off in a direction, gives you an attitude, and helps you to find your tone of voice.

Craft a Powerful Beginning

“Imagine if you will…” You’ve got to get their attention in the first three seconds or you will lose your audience.

[tags] organizational storytelling, Gerry Lantz [/tags]

Non-credit online leadership training now offered through Eastern Michigan University’s Professional Programs and Training!

Leadership 101 – 8 contact hours

Today’s dynamic and competitive business environment requires that organizations develop and support leaders at all levels. In this online workshop, participants will learn the principles and practices of effective leaders, how to develop their own leadership capacities, and how to develop the leadership capacities of others in their organizations.

Upon successful completion of the online Leadership 101 workshop, participants will be able to:

• Recognize the unique role that leadership plays in the 21st Century organization,
• Compare the roles of leaders and managers,
• Identify the practices of leadership,
• Provide examples of effective leadership communication,
• Describe different approaches to organizational change and compare them to a specific change experience of their own,
• Discuss the ethical responsibilities of leaders,
• Identify strategies to develop leaders in their organization, and
• Develop a plan to expand their own leadership capacity.

Register today! Enter discount code “Delta” to receive a free e-report, The Leader as Storyteller: Using Narrative to Inspire, Influence, Teach and Persuade.

[tags] online leadership training, leadership training, leadership communication, Eastern Michigan University, Professional Programs and Training, Beth Stoner [/tags]