The trust that Americans have in their fellow citizens may be at an all-time low. Since the Pew Research Center began conducting surveys in 1958, the public’s trust in the government has never been lower. Additionally, fewer Americans today than ever before believe that “most individuals can be trusted.” Associated Press
Those assuming leadership roles need to be aware that their “audience” doesn’t believe in them. You might possess the knowledge, abilities, and experience required to complete the task. But until they have their faith and believe in you, it means nothing. You only have folks working for a paycheck up until that point.
What trust experts in motivational speaking know
When I initially began giving motivational speeches, I was primarily concerned with the presentation—the script—and what I expected the audience to take away. They applauded, and the clients were happy with the work I done, but something was still wrong. Buy in. They were paying attention, but they didn’t seem to buy it. I had to figure out how to go from instructing them to genuinely inspiring them to act. That’s when my storytelling prowess really came in handy. The magic began when I figured out how to wrap the knowledge in a story to reach a deeper level. They didn’t just clap when I finished; they immediately stood up. They purchased all of my goods. They rushed to follow me everywhere on my social media profiles.
As a leader, you desire it. You want your followers to DESIRE to go wherever you go. The trick? to win their confidence. Story is the tool. I don’t have time to explain to you today why and how stories are effective. If you Google “science of tale to convince,” you will find a wealth of research and articles. For the time being, you’ll just have to take my word for it that using stories to inspire and build trust among your followers is your greatest leadership strength.
How to utilize story as a new leader to build trust
Keep in mind that I keep referring to the new leader. Why? Because individuals who have held a particular leadership position for a considerable amount of time have already gained (or lost) the trust of their followers via their deeds. A little too late, really. Or perhaps not. However, I’m speaking to the group’s leader as he approaches them in the chilly air. You’re pumped up and prepared to lead. However, they must catch up. A good tale will assist them in catching up.
Why ought people to believe you? Spend some time reflecting on this first question that you should ask yourself. Because you tell them not to, they won’t believe you. You must establish your credibility with them. Stories demonstrate instead of narrate. So, you’re employing the proper tool. List a few reasons why your “audience” should have confidence in you. Here are some of the justifications why people should believe me when I talk in front of them.
I’ve experienced similar suffering.
I desire the same things as them.
We are really similar.
Where they have been, I have also there.
I am convinced of the vision’s potential to improve the world.
I’ve made errors before and I’ve grown from them.
I’ve spent my entire life getting ready for this.
I have kids, just like you.
Years ago, my wife and I through a difficult time in our marriage.
Take note of the same theme running through all of these examples: finding common ground with and engaging my audience on a level playing field. They lower their arms when they recognize me as “one of them.”
Consider some of your own arguments for why people ought to have faith in you.
Share a story that demonstrates one or more of the points you made on your list above.
The “I have been where you have been” anecdote is one of the best examples of leadership. Although you may not have held the same position as they do, you may have held a similar position elsewhere. Find a tale from that period in which you erred and reflect on it. where you experienced pain that is similar to theirs and discovered a solution. No story is inherently right or wrong. Find the tale that demonstrates to them that you share certain characteristics with them.
The following advice will help you make sure the story is successful:
This isn’t a boastful tale. the exact opposite. This narrative is about a mistake or unpleasant experience you had.
Don’t try to be the protagonist of the tale. It would be better if your leader or supervisor taught you something.
Ensure that the lesson of the narrative is stated properly at the conclusion.
This seems easy. Since it is. However, it has a significant effect on your audience. It makes you human and vulnerable. They also trust you more when they perceive you to be human.
Typical tale of a new leader
I am aware that I am a stranger to each of you and new to this organization. And some of you are likely feeling a little uneasy and contemplating “Oh, no! Extra changes someone else instructing us on what to do.” I got it. I spent fifteen years working at a company where the top executives frequently changed. It was annoying. In reality, I was performing a lot of the same tasks that you do now; we were simply in a different building and on a different street. I always thought I did a decent job, but no one really seemed to care. Although it looked like no one was interested in my brilliant ideas, I had them. I didn’t really feel appreciated or valued. Then there was this brand-new boss. Yes, yet another fresh face. We didn’t really think about him. But he took a different action than the others, which instantly caught our attention. We were urged to offer our opinions during his town hall sessions. And he paid close attention. He would then get in touch with us to discuss them further. Even better, he highlighted me in the company newsletter, including me in a meeting with the higher-ups who came in from out of town, and put one of my ideas in his annual plan. I had a rock star feeling. I was on my way out the door before he arrived. However, I stayed for an additional ten years. He impacted how I lived. He was the one who pushed me to take the reins. Additionally, I don’t have all the solutions as I stand in front of you today. But I believe that this chamber contains all the solutions. I doubt that my purpose in being here is to direct you. I believe my presence is intended to initiate conversation. I believe you have some excellent ideas, albeit perhaps you’ve never got the chance to express them. That is over now. I’m here to let you know that I’m hearing you. I care. I sincerely hope you will give me a chance to gain your confidence. I’m sure I’ll err occasionally, just like you will. But we are all involved in this. The people we serve depend too much on what we do. Although we all have various roles to perform in our business, when our arms are linked, we can do much more. To join arms with you now is an honor.
Improve your sales presentations with stories by enrolling in StoryImpactAcademy.com today!