Assuring Story Continuity
First impressions matter
How a speaker takes the stage or a team leader takes charge will quickly set the tone for any message to follow. Once that tone is established, value has to be instant and obvious. Then the value builds as the story unfolds, logically and consistently flowing from one idea to the next in a clear, constant race to the result. Logic requires continuity, and continuity keeps both speaker and listener on course and in focus. Without continuity, our audience gets lost.
Achieving continuity in any talk requires each element of #CorporateStorytelling have an obvious and undeniable link to every other element. The more divergent our concepts or proof points, the less they align with one another, muddying the message and undermining its impact.
Absolute alignment
Continuity links each piece of data and supporting argument together in a strong chain that pulls toward an empowering payoff. Assure your story includes contrasts between today's reality and tomorrow's opportunity. Add transitions from one piece of information to the next so nothing gets blurred or runs together. Clarify the cause and effect a vital statistic creates on the end user experience. Continuity ties the first sentence straight through to the last.
Continuity also mandates that we align every aspect of our physical presentation: Words, slides, voice, stature, energy, and passion for our topic. The better they all work in harmony, the more we portray credibility and value for the viewer.
Match the words with the voice
A good script with bad slides wrecks continuity. An important message delivered in dull monotone misaligns and confuses the viewer. When we say, “I'm so excited to announce the release of version 2.1” in a voice that sounds unexcited and disconnected, version 2.1 falls flat.
We can't share our powerful solution for organizational control while nervously wandering around the stage, stumbling over notes, hopping from idea to idea, and staring at the floor. These read as anything but control. Make the words and the voice match. The physical has a direct reflection on the verbal.
Bottom Line
Continuity in #CorporateStorytelling is not just about telling a story; It's about creating positive change and offering meaningful, actionable value for others. All based in clarity, consistency, and continuity.
Storytelling continuity is what separates memorable from forgettable speakers. Continuity differentiates a brand from its competitors through holistic, connected, clearly structured content. Continuity proves our value, fosters trust, and expands our credibility.
