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The Story Factor
Book

The Story Factor

Inspiration, Influence, and Persuasion Through the Art of Storytelling

Annette Simmons
Basic Books, 2006
First Edition: 2000

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Editorial Rating

7

Recommendation

Annette Simmons is thoroughly convincing in her assertion that the best way to influence and inspire others is to tell stories. Unfortunately, she is a bit heavy-handed on the "why" of storytelling, which she explains in depth in every chapter, and a shade light regarding "how" to accomplish her lofty goals. Simmons explains that telling people an engaging story is far more persuasive than reciting facts and figures, or showing a PowerPoint presentation. To illustrate her position, Simmons uses good stories and parables as examples. She describes the six categories of stories you can use to connect with and influence people, and she offers suggestions on how to become a prolific, entertaining storyteller. This is not a typical "how-to" book with lists of things to do, but it is instructive and useful. getAbstract recommends it to anyone who is interested in the art of persuasion or who loves a good yarn.

Take-Aways

  • A story is a true or fictitious account of an event from "your own experience, your imagination, a literary source or oral tradition."
  • To truly influence someone, don’t simply provide facts and data. Instead, tell a story.
  • Influential stories can be about identity, place, vision, values, a lesson you want to teach, objections you want to overcome or another person’s point of view.

About the Author

Annette Simmons is the founder of a consulting company that specializes in helping organizations increase their revenues through collaborative behavior. She is a public speaker and the author of Territorial Games and A Safe Place for Dangerous Truths.

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    M. M. 6 years ago
    Storytelling is more than a tool, is an art mixed with your own passion to be the most persuasive you can be. Great content! It’s amazing how you can impact the audience emotions and be effective. I’m already using it ?? #getMotivated #getAbstract
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    G. O. 6 years ago
    storytelling was part of my growing up, folklores &tales by moonlight were examples that inspired me. I'v adopted same in connecting wt friends &children. Awesome that Annette has made it even simpler with the “kinds of stories” nuggets #getMotivated #readingchallenge #getabstract
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    W. N. 6 years ago
    One of the key skills for leaders, being able to engage an audience through storytelling enables connection at a human level. A very useful summary.