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The Story Factor: Inspiration, Influence, and Persuasion through the Art of Storytelling
Fully revised, updated, and expanded, this modern classic will teach you to use the art of storytelling to persuade, motivate, and inspire in life and business
Anyone seeking to influence others must first know their own story, and how to tell it properly. Whether you're proposing a risky new venture, trying to close a deal, or leading a charge against injustice, you have a story to tell. Tell it well and you will create a shared experience with your listeners that can have profound results.
In this modern classic, Annette Simmons reminds us that the oldest tool of influence is also the most powerful. Fully revised and updated to account for new technology and social media, along with two new chapters on the role of stories in the development of civilization and how to adjust your story to your specific goal, Simmons showcases over a hundred examples of effective storytelling drawn from the front lines of business and government, as well as myths, fables, and parables from around the world. Whether writing a screenplay, or announcing a corporate reorganization, Simmons illustrates how story can be used in ways that cold facts, bullet points, and directives can't. These stories, combined with practical storytelling techniques, show anyone how to become a more effective communicator and achieve their goals.
Anyone seeking to influence others must first know their own story, and how to tell it properly. Whether you're proposing a risky new venture, trying to close a deal, or leading a charge against injustice, you have a story to tell. Tell it well and you will create a shared experience with your listeners that can have profound results.
In this modern classic, Annette Simmons reminds us that the oldest tool of influence is also the most powerful. Fully revised and updated to account for new technology and social media, along with two new chapters on the role of stories in the development of civilization and how to adjust your story to your specific goal, Simmons showcases over a hundred examples of effective storytelling drawn from the front lines of business and government, as well as myths, fables, and parables from around the world. Whether writing a screenplay, or announcing a corporate reorganization, Simmons illustrates how story can be used in ways that cold facts, bullet points, and directives can't. These stories, combined with practical storytelling techniques, show anyone how to become a more effective communicator and achieve their goals.
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2000
337 people are currently reading
5636 people want to read
About the author
Annette Simmons
39 books51 followersAnnette Simmons is a vibrant keynote speaker, consultant and author of four books: The Story Factor named as one of The 100 Best Business Books of All Time, Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins , A Safe Place for Dangerous Truth (AMACOM, 1998), and Territorial Games: Understanding and Ending Turf Wars at Work.
Annette started with a business degree from Louisiana State University in 1983, spent ten years in Australia in international business, attained a M.Ed. from NC State in 1994 and started Group Process Consulting in 1996. Annette is surprisingly honest, ferrets out hidden opportunities, joyfully takes risks and tells a good story.
Annette started with a business degree from Louisiana State University in 1983, spent ten years in Australia in international business, attained a M.Ed. from NC State in 1994 and started Group Process Consulting in 1996. Annette is surprisingly honest, ferrets out hidden opportunities, joyfully takes risks and tells a good story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
May 12, 2012
As the title indicates, this is a book about the power of storytelling as an influencing tool. As Annette best tells it: "People don't want more information. They are up to their eyeball in information. They want faith...Faith needs a story to sustain it - a meaningful story that inspires belief in you and renews hope that your ideas indeed offer what you promise...Story is your path to creating faith. Telling a meaningful story means inspiring your listeners...to reach the same conclusions you have reached and decide for themselves to believe what you say and do what you want them to do. People value their own conclusions more highly than yours. They will only have faith in a story that has become real for them personally. Once people make your story, their story, you have tapped into the powerful force of faith. Future influence will require very little follow-up energy from you and may even expand as people recall and retell your story to others."
The author then goes to summarize what the remainder of the book is about: "The rest of this book is dedicated to proving to you the things you already know about storytelling and filling in whatever gaps might be missing. Storytelling is not rocket science. It is very easy and incredibly rewarding to practice."
A very enlightening, practical and applicable book - no matter what it is that you do in life. You will find inspiration and learn numerous techniques to improve your storytelling abilities and consequently your influence. Highly recommended read!
Below are key excerpts from the book, that I found particularly insightful:
1- "There are six types of stories that will serve you well in your efforts to influence others. 1) "Who I Am" Stories, 2) "Why I Am Here" Stories, 3) "The Vision" Story, 4) "Teaching" Stories, 5) "Values-in-Action" Stories, 6) "I Know What You Are Thinking" Stories. "
2- "Other methods of influence - persuasion, bribery, or charismatic appeals - are push strategies. Story is a pull strategy. If your story is good enough, people - of their own free will - come to the conclusion they can trust and the message you bring."
3- "People need story to organize their thoughts and make sense of things. In fact, anyone you attempt to influence already has a story...If you tell them a story that makes better sense to them you can reframe the way they organize their thoughts, the meanings they draw, and thus the actions they take."
4- "Policy can't adapt, but a story can give guidance, make sense, and without ruling on either side of an unresolvable conflict, invite someone to think through her own creative solution to a tough problem."
5- "A good story helps you influence the interpretation people give to facts. Facts aren't influential until they mean something to someone. A story delivers a context so that your facts slide into new slots in your listener's brains."
6- "However, if you tell sustaining, guiding stories like this one, people will feel empowered to stop asking you for answers and to think for themselves. An answer only gives them a fish, whereas a story teaches them how to fish for themselves."
7- "Influence is a function of grabbing attention, connecting to what they already feel is important, and linking that feeling to whatever you want them to see, do,or feel. It is easier to let your story land first, and then draw the circle of meaning/connection around it using what you see and hear in the responses of your listeners. Influencing is a real-time activity."
8- "Traditional models of influence are linear and focus on power that is first gained, then exercised, and in the end either reinforced or list. Story favors a circular model of power where influence is passed back and forth and where beginning are endings and endings are beginnings."
9- "A wonderful way to find influential stories is to review the personal experiences that brought you to the place where you now want to influence others."
10- "True influence changes behavior without relying on constant reminders. Any agreement that depends on policing future behavior is not addressing some force or dynamic still working against your desired goal."
11- "No builder would start building without first understanding the foundations of the terrain. Neither would a successful influencer build a new story without first understanding the old stories. Influence will require either a new foundation that can coexist with the old stories or excavation and removal of the old outdated stories."
12- "Storytelling tracks vital deviations that inspire growth - meaningful personal experiences, creative solutions to conflict, and paradoxial truths."
13- "After all, organizational values form behavior. Stories about your values in action create and sustain the organizational culture (for better or for worse). When you live the vision and values you profess, you need only tell people what happened last week or last moth. If you aren't living your vision and values daily, well, you can't dress a pig in a ball gown and expect people to call her princess. Story telling operates as a litmus test of accountability that simultaneously inspires and reminds us to stay true to our values."
14- "Storytelling is the most valuable skill you can develop to help influence others. It is your birthright to be a good storyteller. In a sense, your life is a story and you are already telling that one perfectly. "
The author then goes to summarize what the remainder of the book is about: "The rest of this book is dedicated to proving to you the things you already know about storytelling and filling in whatever gaps might be missing. Storytelling is not rocket science. It is very easy and incredibly rewarding to practice."
A very enlightening, practical and applicable book - no matter what it is that you do in life. You will find inspiration and learn numerous techniques to improve your storytelling abilities and consequently your influence. Highly recommended read!
Below are key excerpts from the book, that I found particularly insightful:
1- "There are six types of stories that will serve you well in your efforts to influence others. 1) "Who I Am" Stories, 2) "Why I Am Here" Stories, 3) "The Vision" Story, 4) "Teaching" Stories, 5) "Values-in-Action" Stories, 6) "I Know What You Are Thinking" Stories. "
2- "Other methods of influence - persuasion, bribery, or charismatic appeals - are push strategies. Story is a pull strategy. If your story is good enough, people - of their own free will - come to the conclusion they can trust and the message you bring."
3- "People need story to organize their thoughts and make sense of things. In fact, anyone you attempt to influence already has a story...If you tell them a story that makes better sense to them you can reframe the way they organize their thoughts, the meanings they draw, and thus the actions they take."
4- "Policy can't adapt, but a story can give guidance, make sense, and without ruling on either side of an unresolvable conflict, invite someone to think through her own creative solution to a tough problem."
5- "A good story helps you influence the interpretation people give to facts. Facts aren't influential until they mean something to someone. A story delivers a context so that your facts slide into new slots in your listener's brains."
6- "However, if you tell sustaining, guiding stories like this one, people will feel empowered to stop asking you for answers and to think for themselves. An answer only gives them a fish, whereas a story teaches them how to fish for themselves."
7- "Influence is a function of grabbing attention, connecting to what they already feel is important, and linking that feeling to whatever you want them to see, do,or feel. It is easier to let your story land first, and then draw the circle of meaning/connection around it using what you see and hear in the responses of your listeners. Influencing is a real-time activity."
8- "Traditional models of influence are linear and focus on power that is first gained, then exercised, and in the end either reinforced or list. Story favors a circular model of power where influence is passed back and forth and where beginning are endings and endings are beginnings."
9- "A wonderful way to find influential stories is to review the personal experiences that brought you to the place where you now want to influence others."
10- "True influence changes behavior without relying on constant reminders. Any agreement that depends on policing future behavior is not addressing some force or dynamic still working against your desired goal."
11- "No builder would start building without first understanding the foundations of the terrain. Neither would a successful influencer build a new story without first understanding the old stories. Influence will require either a new foundation that can coexist with the old stories or excavation and removal of the old outdated stories."
12- "Storytelling tracks vital deviations that inspire growth - meaningful personal experiences, creative solutions to conflict, and paradoxial truths."
13- "After all, organizational values form behavior. Stories about your values in action create and sustain the organizational culture (for better or for worse). When you live the vision and values you profess, you need only tell people what happened last week or last moth. If you aren't living your vision and values daily, well, you can't dress a pig in a ball gown and expect people to call her princess. Story telling operates as a litmus test of accountability that simultaneously inspires and reminds us to stay true to our values."
14- "Storytelling is the most valuable skill you can develop to help influence others. It is your birthright to be a good storyteller. In a sense, your life is a story and you are already telling that one perfectly. "
October 14, 2009
Not very helpful--
I was very excited to start on this book after reading so many good reviews about it. I had my pen at the ready to underline valuable passages and take notes. I expected it to give me specific techniques and tips to improve my storytelling skills.
But alas, my expectations were too high and unreasonable. I came away with a little bit more of appreciation for story and what it can do, but that's about it. No specific techniques or tips that could improve my skills as a storyteller.
The main reason for this deficiency is that story as a form defies "rules" and "models." The author compares story models to dissecting a kitten to understand why it's cute.
Touche.
Story is specific, emotional, personal, and subjective. Good to know that. But that's specifically why it by its nature can't be modeled, codified, or broken down into a bunch of rules.
Although I do believe there could have been more specific tips that might have helped me improve my storytelling skills, it comes down to this: listen to stories and tell stories.
That's the only way to get better at it.
Duh.
I felt the book was too long and underdelivered. It gave some good stories but didn't give me enough information on the specific points it was making (see for example, how to influence the unconcerned and unmotivated).
Overall, despite a few nuggets of golden advice, I was disappointed.
I was very excited to start on this book after reading so many good reviews about it. I had my pen at the ready to underline valuable passages and take notes. I expected it to give me specific techniques and tips to improve my storytelling skills.
But alas, my expectations were too high and unreasonable. I came away with a little bit more of appreciation for story and what it can do, but that's about it. No specific techniques or tips that could improve my skills as a storyteller.
The main reason for this deficiency is that story as a form defies "rules" and "models." The author compares story models to dissecting a kitten to understand why it's cute.
Touche.
Story is specific, emotional, personal, and subjective. Good to know that. But that's specifically why it by its nature can't be modeled, codified, or broken down into a bunch of rules.
Although I do believe there could have been more specific tips that might have helped me improve my storytelling skills, it comes down to this: listen to stories and tell stories.
That's the only way to get better at it.
Duh.
I felt the book was too long and underdelivered. It gave some good stories but didn't give me enough information on the specific points it was making (see for example, how to influence the unconcerned and unmotivated).
Overall, despite a few nuggets of golden advice, I was disappointed.
July 26, 2011
If you are familiar with the movie Inception then you know the line "What is the most resilient parasite? Bacteria? A virus? An intestinal worm? An idea. Resilient... highly contagious. Once an idea has taken hold of the brain it's almost impossible to eradicate. An idea that is fully formed - fully understood - that sticks; right in there somewhere."
A wise man once told me "Don't let the truth get in the way of a good story." I think that applies here. It reminds me that people simply do not understand fact or analytical thought process and often forget numbers. This makes it hard for them to compare products or ideas and determine which one is better. Why did betamax lose, note because the specs were worse than VHS. Because they didn't tell as good of a story.
What people do not forget are stories. Why because those stories create ideas, ah yes ideas those resilient little parasites. Often stories create other stories, and those who can tell a good story can often exert influence over others. Don't believe me, then say to someone "Let me tell you a story" and see how they are immediately drawn in, and set themselves up to really listen to what you have to say. In this day and age people have so much access to information, they no longer crave it but are overloaded by it. They want you to tell them a story so they don't have to sift through all that information, and instead can easily remember your story. Think about how many people whose names you forget but remember their "story". Most of have at one time or another tried to remember the guy from Texas or the Girl who drives a VW Beatle, and just could not remember their name.
This book has helped me tell the story each of us tell thousands of times in our lifetime. That is the "Who we are any why we are here" story. When I meet new people for the first time I've changed my "Who I am story" to explain how I am from Pittsburgh and my great-grand-father was a butcher. Next, I say I'm just glad I learned how to program computers so I do not have to cut up cows for a living or work in a steel mill. This tends to be a bit better of a story than I have a Comp. Sci. degree and I'm from Pittsburgh. I like it because it gives me some context, but also sets the listener up to think I'm hard working and thankful to be in the field of technology.
I was also happy to learn that some stories can even be a single sentence. My favorite from the book was "The man who beats his horse will soon be walking." I will try to remember that to my boss if he ever starts overloading me with work. But, more than anything I liked the story from Nelson Mandela in one of the final chapters of the book about hope.
In the end who among us does not want to be a better story teller. So, in closing let me tell you a story about the what I learned from this book...
A wise man once told me "Don't let the truth get in the way of a good story." I think that applies here. It reminds me that people simply do not understand fact or analytical thought process and often forget numbers. This makes it hard for them to compare products or ideas and determine which one is better. Why did betamax lose, note because the specs were worse than VHS. Because they didn't tell as good of a story.
What people do not forget are stories. Why because those stories create ideas, ah yes ideas those resilient little parasites. Often stories create other stories, and those who can tell a good story can often exert influence over others. Don't believe me, then say to someone "Let me tell you a story" and see how they are immediately drawn in, and set themselves up to really listen to what you have to say. In this day and age people have so much access to information, they no longer crave it but are overloaded by it. They want you to tell them a story so they don't have to sift through all that information, and instead can easily remember your story. Think about how many people whose names you forget but remember their "story". Most of have at one time or another tried to remember the guy from Texas or the Girl who drives a VW Beatle, and just could not remember their name.
This book has helped me tell the story each of us tell thousands of times in our lifetime. That is the "Who we are any why we are here" story. When I meet new people for the first time I've changed my "Who I am story" to explain how I am from Pittsburgh and my great-grand-father was a butcher. Next, I say I'm just glad I learned how to program computers so I do not have to cut up cows for a living or work in a steel mill. This tends to be a bit better of a story than I have a Comp. Sci. degree and I'm from Pittsburgh. I like it because it gives me some context, but also sets the listener up to think I'm hard working and thankful to be in the field of technology.
I was also happy to learn that some stories can even be a single sentence. My favorite from the book was "The man who beats his horse will soon be walking." I will try to remember that to my boss if he ever starts overloading me with work. But, more than anything I liked the story from Nelson Mandela in one of the final chapters of the book about hope.
In the end who among us does not want to be a better story teller. So, in closing let me tell you a story about the what I learned from this book...
March 30, 2016
i'm extremely disappointed
i can't believe that a book about storytelling can be so boring. oh maybe it's my expectations that were wrong? basically, i wanted a kind of tutorial. like, here's how you build a story - 1, 2, 3. those are the types, those are the points, those are the tools. instead a got a whole book of water
well, they mentioned the story types in the very beginning, but that was it. the rest of the book was about "stories are so powerful, it's so awesome, omg, stories are cool". i was like - seriously, 200 pages?? i mean, i'd be happy to read more about psychological and biological basics of story perception but not the phrase "stories are so convincing" over and over again
i wonder, whether i'll read at least one decent business book this year...
i can't believe that a book about storytelling can be so boring. oh maybe it's my expectations that were wrong? basically, i wanted a kind of tutorial. like, here's how you build a story - 1, 2, 3. those are the types, those are the points, those are the tools. instead a got a whole book of water
well, they mentioned the story types in the very beginning, but that was it. the rest of the book was about "stories are so powerful, it's so awesome, omg, stories are cool". i was like - seriously, 200 pages?? i mean, i'd be happy to read more about psychological and biological basics of story perception but not the phrase "stories are so convincing" over and over again
i wonder, whether i'll read at least one decent business book this year...
September 14, 2017
This is more of a business/public speaking book, and not a very good one at that. Very little insight into storytelling, and could have been re-titled "How to Win Friends and Influence People by Telling Stories."
I knew I was in trouble when on page 30 she made the factual error stating Heaven's Gate members believed Halley's Comet was their salvation (it was actually Hale-Bopp) and spelled Halley "Haley."
There are much better books on storytelling and public speaking. This one missed the mark.
I knew I was in trouble when on page 30 she made the factual error stating Heaven's Gate members believed Halley's Comet was their salvation (it was actually Hale-Bopp) and spelled Halley "Haley."
There are much better books on storytelling and public speaking. This one missed the mark.
January 14, 2016
After seeing it referred to in another book, I had this book sitting in my "wishlist" on Amazon for months. Then I slipped it into a shipment of books that I ordered and it sat on my shelf for several more months. Finally, during my summer holidays, I pulled it out and began to read.
Annette Simmons is inspirational about the power of story. I was reading the book as a ministry leader, rather than as a professional speaker. It reminded me of the power of non rational communication, the power of community, the power of personal connection. She addressed the issue of the ethics of the use/abuse of this power. She hints that each mini story needs to connect to a meta narrative (and be congruent with our understanding of that great story if it is to be influential) - and as a Christian I affirm the power of the great story which Annette hints is "Truth".
Annette also draws stories from a diverse range of sources - religious, cultural and the different areas of life. In fact, the strength of Annette's book is her modelling of how to tell a story. She argues that trying to explain how and why a story works (beyond some simple principles) is like dissecting a kitten to see why it is cute.
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in thinking about how to be a better leader by developing the skill of influencing others through story telling.
Annette Simmons is inspirational about the power of story. I was reading the book as a ministry leader, rather than as a professional speaker. It reminded me of the power of non rational communication, the power of community, the power of personal connection. She addressed the issue of the ethics of the use/abuse of this power. She hints that each mini story needs to connect to a meta narrative (and be congruent with our understanding of that great story if it is to be influential) - and as a Christian I affirm the power of the great story which Annette hints is "Truth".
Annette also draws stories from a diverse range of sources - religious, cultural and the different areas of life. In fact, the strength of Annette's book is her modelling of how to tell a story. She argues that trying to explain how and why a story works (beyond some simple principles) is like dissecting a kitten to see why it is cute.
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in thinking about how to be a better leader by developing the skill of influencing others through story telling.
February 3, 2010
What did I learn from this book? What do I want to remember? Story of 3 men - 1 laying bricks, 1 building a wall, 1 building a cahtedral . . . storytelling can help us see the cathedral. Ask a 5-year-old if she can draw and she will enthusiastically say ‘Yes!’ Ask a group of adults the same question and they will hesitate . . . our lives are a story and we are already telling that one perfectly. Jewish Teaching Story – naked truth is rejected at every door. Clothe the truth in parable and it is warmly received. Stories house truths that can resonate. I think of David McCullough's quote from Undaunted - about how we can have all the facts and miss the Truth in history whereas we can have limited facts or incorrect facts and reach a larger Truth. 'Story lets you be congruent in a metaphorical way when facts seem diametrically opposed.' A fact is like a sack – it won’t stand up if it’s empty. To make it stand up, first you have to put in it all the reasons and feelings that caused it in the first place. – Luigi Pirandello
April 21, 2011
I absolutely enjoy storytelling and believe this ancient art-form to be the foundation of civilization. If you are interested in storytelling, I would recommend you visit Doug Lipman, which the author of this book recommends as well: http://storydynamics.com/
Also, a famous storyteller that I have grown to love over the years is Leo Sofer: http://www.palaceofstories.com/
He offers free downloads of his stories as podcasts before they make it to the "buy me" page - so, I would encourage you to hop on over and give his stories a listen. He caters to adults as well as children as has a hypnotic way of going story within story within story - then back out again. It is captivating.
Lastly, I would recommend Uncommon Knowledge "Storytelling" CD. It is packed with wonderful tales that will cause you to evaluate life from a different perspective: http://www.uncommon-knowledge.co.uk/p...
Enjoy Life...
Also, a famous storyteller that I have grown to love over the years is Leo Sofer: http://www.palaceofstories.com/
He offers free downloads of his stories as podcasts before they make it to the "buy me" page - so, I would encourage you to hop on over and give his stories a listen. He caters to adults as well as children as has a hypnotic way of going story within story within story - then back out again. It is captivating.
Lastly, I would recommend Uncommon Knowledge "Storytelling" CD. It is packed with wonderful tales that will cause you to evaluate life from a different perspective: http://www.uncommon-knowledge.co.uk/p...
Enjoy Life...
January 29, 2013
My favorite book written about storytelling and storytelling techniques. The six types of stories help anyone understand how useful stories can be in communicating with people who are you and what you stand for. A must-have for entrepreneurs, I can also recommend this to writers, artists and specifically for anyone who blogs.
June 12, 2023
The Story Factor by Annette Simmons is important reading for anyone who seeks to write stories to positively change the world. She draws on extensive experience of storytelling, both in and outside the workplace to provide real examples of how and why stories can help shift opinions and behaviours.
“Storytelling, at its best, is a collaborative form of communication that accumulates wisdom and habits for social good as well as individual good. As Ursula Le Guin observed, “There are entire societies that have never used the wheel. But there are no societies that did not tell stories.””
Abraham Lincoln was someone who understood the power of stories better than most. They helped propel him to success by connecting with his cabinet, his army as well as the public. Simmons writes that, “Lincoln knew that humor and story could influence better than humiliation and shame. He was even attacked for his leniency on his enemies. One woman told him that he should destroy his enemies. He answered, “Isn’t that what I do when I make them friends?””
One thing that I was really impressed with was Simmons’ words on technology and AI, which as of 2023 has come on leaps and bounds and threatens human storytelling, human jobs, democracy and even civilisation itself, according to experts. Some of Simmons’ quotes on tech that really stand out and feel very prescient include:
• “I’m not a technophile. Offer me the option of a machine or a human and I will take the human every time.”
• “Those who place all their faith in technology tend to justify their faith with stories that discredit the intelligence of human emotions and question the value of building faith in the goodness of humanity.”
• “For those who put all their faith in data, their truths change daily. They miss out on the benefits of building a culture that places more faith in people than machines.”
• “Certain groups have learned to harvest the twin powers of stories and technology. These weaponized stories persuade neighbors to attack each other as enemies. They undermine trust and often trick us to act against our own best interests. Now that technology amplifies the frequency and reach of malicious storytelling, the power of malicious storytelling to destroy social cohesion is more evident than ever.”
• “Now that we have manufactured supernatural technologies that reach exponentially larger audiences and grant extravagant wishes at the press of a button, we are relearning the hard way to watch out what we wish for.”
This then is a vital book for our troubled age. One where storytellers are desperately needed to tackle the many challenges that humanity faces, which are being driven by greedy individuals who value profit more than societal wellbeing. We can shape the world for the better, and doing so starts with the stories we tell ourselves and each other. So let’s become the storytellers the world needs and live up to our responsibility to leave the world in a better place for future generations.
“Storytelling, at its best, is a collaborative form of communication that accumulates wisdom and habits for social good as well as individual good. As Ursula Le Guin observed, “There are entire societies that have never used the wheel. But there are no societies that did not tell stories.””
Abraham Lincoln was someone who understood the power of stories better than most. They helped propel him to success by connecting with his cabinet, his army as well as the public. Simmons writes that, “Lincoln knew that humor and story could influence better than humiliation and shame. He was even attacked for his leniency on his enemies. One woman told him that he should destroy his enemies. He answered, “Isn’t that what I do when I make them friends?””
One thing that I was really impressed with was Simmons’ words on technology and AI, which as of 2023 has come on leaps and bounds and threatens human storytelling, human jobs, democracy and even civilisation itself, according to experts. Some of Simmons’ quotes on tech that really stand out and feel very prescient include:
• “I’m not a technophile. Offer me the option of a machine or a human and I will take the human every time.”
• “Those who place all their faith in technology tend to justify their faith with stories that discredit the intelligence of human emotions and question the value of building faith in the goodness of humanity.”
• “For those who put all their faith in data, their truths change daily. They miss out on the benefits of building a culture that places more faith in people than machines.”
• “Certain groups have learned to harvest the twin powers of stories and technology. These weaponized stories persuade neighbors to attack each other as enemies. They undermine trust and often trick us to act against our own best interests. Now that technology amplifies the frequency and reach of malicious storytelling, the power of malicious storytelling to destroy social cohesion is more evident than ever.”
• “Now that we have manufactured supernatural technologies that reach exponentially larger audiences and grant extravagant wishes at the press of a button, we are relearning the hard way to watch out what we wish for.”
This then is a vital book for our troubled age. One where storytellers are desperately needed to tackle the many challenges that humanity faces, which are being driven by greedy individuals who value profit more than societal wellbeing. We can shape the world for the better, and doing so starts with the stories we tell ourselves and each other. So let’s become the storytellers the world needs and live up to our responsibility to leave the world in a better place for future generations.
March 17, 2022
Definitely worth reading, though I found it dragged a bit towards the end when the main points were mostly already conveyed. Overall happy that I finally grabbed it off the shelf.
January 12, 2022
Much better books on the same topic out there.
November 29, 2010
Anyone who has an interest in how storytelling can be used for more effective communication (in business as well as personal situations) should read this book. It makes an incredibly compelling and clear case for the use of story and highlights a range of potential applications and benefits from using a story-based approach.
As I made my way through the book I was hoping for some more 'how to' information. The new chapter in the paperback edition, 'Story Thinking as a Skill', was certainly the chapter I found most useful. While this chapter stops short of providing a step-by-step guide on how to elicit, structure and present stories, I realised, after making my way through the book, that this would be impossible. There is no one-size-fits-all formula or approach to storytelling, and as the author writes in the last paragraph of the book - 'Agility improves with practice and coaching. This new chapter is my best shot at the coaching part. Now it's time for you to go practice'.
Notes from the book are at Webby Clare.
As I made my way through the book I was hoping for some more 'how to' information. The new chapter in the paperback edition, 'Story Thinking as a Skill', was certainly the chapter I found most useful. While this chapter stops short of providing a step-by-step guide on how to elicit, structure and present stories, I realised, after making my way through the book, that this would be impossible. There is no one-size-fits-all formula or approach to storytelling, and as the author writes in the last paragraph of the book - 'Agility improves with practice and coaching. This new chapter is my best shot at the coaching part. Now it's time for you to go practice'.
Notes from the book are at Webby Clare.
January 5, 2016
I read this book for work.
I would recommend The Story Factor to anyone interested in learning how to convert what they've learned from reading, writing and telling stories into a potential success factor in the world of work.
Simmons explains how to use storytelling as a way to influence others. It sounds tricky, and it is, but it's essential for people working in sales, marketing or, like me, copywriting. The author does, however, emphasise that it is important to use this skill for worthy causes that you believe in, and not for manipulative purposes.
The book was a bit repetitive and occasionally preachy, but I'd say overall it did inspire me to become a (better) storyteller. Can that be bad?
I would recommend The Story Factor to anyone interested in learning how to convert what they've learned from reading, writing and telling stories into a potential success factor in the world of work.
Simmons explains how to use storytelling as a way to influence others. It sounds tricky, and it is, but it's essential for people working in sales, marketing or, like me, copywriting. The author does, however, emphasise that it is important to use this skill for worthy causes that you believe in, and not for manipulative purposes.
The book was a bit repetitive and occasionally preachy, but I'd say overall it did inspire me to become a (better) storyteller. Can that be bad?
July 4, 2013
I did not find this book useful. Annette Simmons focuses on why story is important and its effectiveness as a tool of influence and persuasion, but not so much on how to construct and use story effectively. At one point she argues that one can't really tell another how to tell a story - it's too instinctive and individual a process. So not much help there. She also continually intertwines "telling stories' with "living our story." The result is confusing, abstract, and more philosophical than practical. I much prefer Paul Smith's "Lead With a Story."
June 27, 2021
Not one of the better books on storytelling as far as I could tell. Hard to force myself to get through it in hopes that there will be nuggets of wisdom.
“Story” is regularly portrayed as a magic bullet, even in instances where it might be rather inorganic to bring one up. Some examples also seemed like they could just have easily backfired, and I wonder how many that weren’t mentioned actually did.
However, will limit my scepticism and acknowledge that there are some good points and anecdotes dotted here and there.
“Story” is regularly portrayed as a magic bullet, even in instances where it might be rather inorganic to bring one up. Some examples also seemed like they could just have easily backfired, and I wonder how many that weren’t mentioned actually did.
However, will limit my scepticism and acknowledge that there are some good points and anecdotes dotted here and there.
May 27, 2010
This book ran hot and cold for me. Some chapters I found boring and others inspiring. I think if it had some exercises or challenged me to think more about relating my personal experiences to the stories in the book it would have engaged me more. It did enlighten me to the power of storytelling and for that it was worth the read. This is not a 'read it and master it' type of book. It is a starting point and a good introduction.
December 13, 2019
I enjoyed this book. Annette Simmons writes very clearly. The core of the book teaches "the six stories that you need to tell". She explains the emotions which these stories evoke, and gives many practical examples. I have made underlines all the way through it. And I will read it again. It something that you have to put into practice to get the actual value. That's what I will be doing. And I won’t be buying any more storytelling books as I now know everything I need to know to get started !
February 16, 2008
A must read for salespeople, business owners, politicians, and anyone who needs to learn how to influence others (which is basically everyone on the planet).
This is an incredibly good book, explaining very clearly how to use the power of stories to help people see things your way.
As I said, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK.
This is an incredibly good book, explaining very clearly how to use the power of stories to help people see things your way.
As I said, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK.
January 3, 2015
Во-первых в этой книге про сториттелинг нет одной большой объединяющей всё истории. Это какой-то позор.
Во-вторых тут действительно рассказывают "как использовать силу историй" (почти везде), но про составные части истории ничего не говорят, прикрываясь тем, что это бесполезно, идите лучше практикуйтесь. Зачем тогда эта книга, непонятно.
Во-вторых тут действительно рассказывают "как использовать силу историй" (почти везде), но про составные части истории ничего не говорят, прикрываясь тем, что это бесполезно, идите лучше практикуйтесь. Зачем тогда эта книга, непонятно.
October 30, 2016
Such high hopes for this one but it just didn't have enough concrete advice. It all seemed way too rambling. Like she didn't really understand her audience. And perhaps most telling for me: the times she told actual stories (not often enough for my taste) I was rarely moved. Hard to listen to advice from someone whose expertise is undermined by their choices
June 28, 2007
A great tool to have in your library if you are part of leading a company or organization. Simmons does a marvelous job gathering stories that really truly get the point across. I use this book in my storytelling class and the students love it.
February 10, 2023
I may not be the target market for the book. It had good ideas, but nothing that made me go “wow.” And there was something about how it was organized that threw me off. For someone who has no idea what storytelling is and the power it can have, maybe a good book…?
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August 11, 2013Loved this book. The power of stories. Time to revisit & think about this oldest tool of influence.
November 11, 2024
A book about good story telling that almost fell flat with it's story telling.
April 5, 2020
Pick up any book on the leadership and you cannot find it complete without the art of communication. One thing is sure the craft of communication always remains imperfect and flawed without mastering the art of narrative or the craft of storytelling. For gaining mastery over this craft, it's essential to know its tools and techniques. And, this is one of the best books to serve this purpose.
Storytelling is a far more powerful way of influencing people than pointing at facts and figures. Stories can help you reach any audience and inspire them to take action. In fact, storytelling is so powerful a tool that once you become a storyteller, you have a great responsibility to tell stories that improve the lives of those around you.
Actionable advice: Use stories in your next presentation or if you guide your subordinates. The next time you have a presentation or speech coming up, why not base it on stories? Work out the key points you want to make, then try to think of anecdotes that would highlight them for the audience in a clear, relatable way. Or if you want to guide your subordinate, for instance, about maintaining integrity then relate it with an interesting story about a leader who maintains highest standards of integrity and how he emerged cleaned from an inquiry of an anti-graft body due to his reputation he had built.
Storytelling is a far more powerful way of influencing people than pointing at facts and figures. Stories can help you reach any audience and inspire them to take action. In fact, storytelling is so powerful a tool that once you become a storyteller, you have a great responsibility to tell stories that improve the lives of those around you.
Actionable advice: Use stories in your next presentation or if you guide your subordinates. The next time you have a presentation or speech coming up, why not base it on stories? Work out the key points you want to make, then try to think of anecdotes that would highlight them for the audience in a clear, relatable way. Or if you want to guide your subordinate, for instance, about maintaining integrity then relate it with an interesting story about a leader who maintains highest standards of integrity and how he emerged cleaned from an inquiry of an anti-graft body due to his reputation he had built.
June 28, 2020
I felt this book was very disorganized. Here and there, I sense Annette's expert knowledge in this topic. Yet, it was difficult to follow the passage.
Each chapter starts off with an amazing story. But, the text quickly gets mixed with generic self-help advice like great people are also better listeners and you should listen to others as well. That seems a bit far fetched from being a better storyteller.
The book does tell you the importance of storytelling and when you can use it. Story helps deliver a complex situation when a simple answer won't deliver (though I also think politicians and corporation CEO use too much story rhetoric to avoid confrontation). It also helps bridge the emotional gap in conflicts.
Who I am, why I am here, The Vision, The Teaching stories are nice breakdowns. But they are still too vague to start practicing on my skills. As someone who's not at all confident with the storytelling ability, reading this book has not gained me any more confidence in being able to deliver better stories. I am in the hunt for another storybook again.
Each chapter starts off with an amazing story. But, the text quickly gets mixed with generic self-help advice like great people are also better listeners and you should listen to others as well. That seems a bit far fetched from being a better storyteller.
The book does tell you the importance of storytelling and when you can use it. Story helps deliver a complex situation when a simple answer won't deliver (though I also think politicians and corporation CEO use too much story rhetoric to avoid confrontation). It also helps bridge the emotional gap in conflicts.
Who I am, why I am here, The Vision, The Teaching stories are nice breakdowns. But they are still too vague to start practicing on my skills. As someone who's not at all confident with the storytelling ability, reading this book has not gained me any more confidence in being able to deliver better stories. I am in the hunt for another storybook again.
July 11, 2023
Storytelling is the oldest tool of influence, an essential ingredient to developing culture and organizational life. In this groundbreaking book, maverick consultant, writer, and storyteller Annette Simmons applies storytelling lessons to management and leadership. Showcasing stories from the front lines of business, as well as parables, myths, and fables from around the world, Simmons shows how anyone-managers, entrepreneurs, sales and marketing professionals, and even social activists can enhance their communication success by applying the principles of storytelling. From launching new business models to making more effective presentations to getting buy-in for new proposals and initiatives, The Story Factor offers practical guidelines for mastering the art of persuasion and developing more productive relationships with colleagues, employees, bosses, investors, and customers.
March 14, 2021
Annette Simmons really lost me on the last half of the book consisting of unstructured discussions about morality that are only remotely related to storytelling, yet aren't compelling enough to make it a convincing subject on their own. Simmons spends lots of time trying to explain that only storytelling can save us from climate change, as according to her millennials are disconnected from reality and companies following measurable goals can’t account for more than financial profit - so only storytellers can take the lead about important things. Ironically, she follows this discussion by advice to businesses that honest storytelling can boost the trust of the public and therefore create long-term revenues. Yikes...
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