The Story Edge: How Leaders Harness the Power of Stories to Win in Business

by Kindra Hall

A holistic approach to innovation, connection, and problem-solving that has no expiration date.

Our stories allow us to explore our greatest desires and fears, connect with others on a deeper level, and gain a sense of clarity and purpose. In an era of chaotic change and high-pressure decision-making, Kindra Hall—author of Stories That Stick—has a message that runs counter to much of the business acumen of the  Now more than ever, good storytelling is a critical part of successful leadership.

From corporate initiatives and marketing strategies to scientific research and innovation, stories are the key ingredient to engaging audiences, building consensus, and inspiring action. The Story Edge will show

Why storytelling is an essential part of being human.How to find and leverage the story in every situation.How to use story as a tool for positive social impact.How to craft your story in order to leave a lasting legacy.Hall masterfully interweaves storytelling theory with practical business scenarios, creating an engaging guide for present and future leaders. You'll learn how to embrace the art of storytelling and how to consider all angles of the story in every situation.

If there's one thing that will remain true—despite all the transformations we experience in business, culture, and innovation—it's the importance of story. Why? Because story is the original algorithm, the true universal language. And it's one of the most important tools we, as humans, have.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Leadership

225 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 6, 2024

Reviews

[Brian Dixson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Never underestimate the positive impact you can make on a person, how they see themselves, and ultimately, who they become simply by telling them one of their own stories.”

[Manouane Beauchamp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Très bon livre pour saisir les deux concepts à la base du storytelling en contexte organisationnel. Le cœur de la théorie se troue entre les pages 93 à 99 avec :
- Les 4 éléments clés pour identifier le contexte qui nécessite une histoire (clarifier le problème, identifier les objectifs, considérer l'audience, trouver une histoire qui réunit les trois premiers éléments)
- Les 3 phases d'une histoire (la période normale, l'explosion, la nouvelle normalité)
- Les 4 composantes d'une histoire (des personnages auxquels l'audience peut s'identifier, des émotions authentiques, un moment charnière universel, des détails spécifiques).

Par contre, le reste du livre, l'auteur répète le même message inlassablement : une bonne histoire permet de créer une synergie dans un groupe de travail et améliore l'ambiance. Elle ne le mentionne pas, sauf à la page 195 pour dire que ce n'est pas un film mais une série, mais tout au long des pages j'ai pensé à la série Ted Lasso. Autrement dit, vous pouvez survole ce livre et réviser les principes du storytelling avec Ted Lasso.

[Allen Speer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindra Hall writes a book that encourages the most basic human tool, stories. There’s stories in everything and those that want to capture, listen, and share those stories will always find an audience.
This book was very encouraging to me and my biggest takeaway is to ask myself “What’s the story here?” And allowing empathy and good questions to guide the discovery into what that story is. And how to inspire others with those stories.

Any leader that wants to inspire and build teams should read this book.

I’d recommend this book to others but not sure if I would re-read it.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kindra is a great storyteller and encourages others to do be the same. This book inspired me to not only see the stories of my life but to be a better leader by discovering the stories of those around me.

[Steve Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stevo's Business Book of the Week for the week of 6/23.

[Ram Parasuraman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent short read as a follow up to the stories that stick. Good anecdotes, simple message.