Politics and Storytelling
Politics is all about words and numbers. If you don't have the right words, you don't get the right numbers. Politics can be beautifully simple. Politicians are amongst the most maligned professions but also one of the most important. Having the right people in power for the right reasons is good for a country. Politicians are storytellers because they focus, or should focus, on a better tomorrow. We help politicians tell better stories to get into power so they can influence, introduce, amend, or abolish policies and legislation Politics is important.
Resonate with People / Voters
Voters are often called voters. Actually they are people. People relate to people and they love stories they can believe in.
Tell Sticky Stories of Tomorrow
Optimistic stories that bring clarity to the complex. Stories that can be retold and retold.
Mobilise supporters and donors
Without donors and volunteers, your campaign is doomed. They need to believe in you and your story.
Effective Politicians are Great Storytellers
In one poll, Romney beat Obama on every question, often by significant numbers except one in which Obama beat Romney 82 to 18. This is a huge difference, "the machine is broken" kind of difference. The question was "Which candidate most understands people like me?" This was because Obama's story resonated with voters far more than Romney's story did. Obama's story was all about the ambitious and audacious grassroots campaigner, the little guy, while Romney's story was about finance and Big Money. Their stories mattered.
Bill Clinton is a great storyteller, so was Ronald Reagan. A U.K. commentator (all talk and no do, you know the type) complained that politicians should be less optimistic. All we have is hope for a better tomorrow. Great campaigners tell the stories that transport us to a better tomorrow. Great politicians are the one that tell the story of a better tomorrow and then arrange the delivery.
Do you want people to trust you with their votes, their donations and their futures? Tell great stories.
How StoryPower® can help people trying to influence policy and aspiring politicians:
- 1-2-1 Storytelling and SpeakerCoaching sessions for big events like selections, elections and hustings;
- Storytelling counsel for projects and campaigns;
- Speaker Coaching for campaigns, principals and surrogates;
- Ongoing support, counsel and 1-2-1 coaching for campaigns and fundraising.
9 Reasons why Storytelling is key if you want to become, or remain, a politician:
- Connects with Voters: Stories connect with people on an emotional level, make complex issues relatable and humanise politicians - this helps politicians resonate with voters.
- Memorability: Stories are easier to remember than facts and figures. Stories are "sticky".
- Influence and Persuasion: Effective storytelling can sway public opinion and influence decisions. Politicians can use stories to persuade voters, build support for policies, or challenge opponents.
- Trust and Credibility: Authentic stories help politicians build trust and credibility with their constituents. People are more likely to trust leaders who share their personal experiences and values.
- Clarifies Values and Vision: Stories can be used to articulate a politician's values, vision, and mission. They help clarify what the candidate stands for and what they aim to achieve.
- Engagement and Mobilisation: Compelling narratives can engage and mobilise supporters to campaign - Get Out The Vote. They inspire people to get involved in campaigns, donate, and volunteer.
- Counter Negative Narratives: Politicians can use storytelling to counter negative narratives or attacks from opponents. They can provide context and alternative perspectives through stories.
- Builds a Political Brand: Successful politicians have a strong personal brand. Storytelling plays a key role in shaping that brand and making a candidate memorable.
- Cultural Relevance: Stories can tap into cultural and societal issues, making them relevant to the current political landscape. This can help politicians address pressing concerns.
In summary, storytelling is a powerful tool for politicians to communicate, connect, and engage with voters, ultimately helping them achieve their political goals and aspirations.
"There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place."
- J.K. Rowling, novelist, screenwriter and film producer
You Could Make A Difference
Good politicians who work hard, for their people, for the right reasons are needed - and in short supply.
If you are unhappy with policies or politics in your area, get involved. Your other option is to keep on complaining. You might be surprised at how far you can get and how much you can achieve.