If you’re telling stories in a business setting, add more impact to your presentation by telling some stories in first person (“I”), some stories in second person (“You”), and some stories in third person (“He, She, or They”).
Knowing which voice to use in what setting is the key to being successful with this technique. How do you decide? It all depends on what you’re trying to communicate.
o First-Person Storytelling
Telling “I” stories is a good way to build rapport with your audience. First-person stories, including personal experiences of failures and lessons learned as well as successes, are very powerful ways to communicate your message.
Use a story about yourself to demonstrate that you understand what your audience is feeling, what doubts or fears they may be wrestling with; what disappointments they’ve endured; what hopes they harbor; and what dreams they aspire to.
o Second-Person Storytelling
Use second-person language to communicate empathy, create a sense of urgency, and invite participation. Telling a story that addresses your audience directly is the verbal equivalent of walking with someone hand-in-hand.
“You” is the most powerful word in the English language for a storyteller, because the story immediately becomes the listener’s or reader’s story. And once they’ve claimed the story as their own, they aren’t likely to let go of it.
o Third-Person Storytelling
Third-person stories are great for establishing and building credibility.
Use of the third-person often conveys a sense of authority, which is one reason why good case studies — problem/solution stories — are so compelling.
Another reason to use the third person is to help make difficult or complex ideas easier to understand without diluting their importance. Imbuing an important but otherwise dry or technical explanation with some human interest makes it much more likely your audience will retain what you’ve said.
Clear communication is the only way to guarantee your good ideas are heard. Knowing the best way to present this communication helps ensure your ideas are not only heard but remembered.