Inspiring Action: How to Tell Authentic and Persuasive Stories

This event is hosted in partnership with Heart of Maine United Way.

Regardless of our titles, all nonprofit professionals and volunteers need to make connections that inspire people to action – whether on a project committee, in a meeting with a prospective donor, at a volunteer recruitment event, or pitching a corporate partner. We need to connect in ways that are authentic and differentiating. 

Authenticity is what ultimately inspires people to take action. As Simon Sinek so passionately shares in his How Great Leaders Inspire Action TED Talk, engaging audiences and telling stories that move people means shifting your focus from whats and hows to whys.  Coming from a place of authenticity helps you feel something, empathize and make much needed connections.

How do we do this in a believable way? How do we go from being effective presenters to engaging storytellers? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we make meaningful connections within the first few minutes of conversation?

Participants will learn about

• Finding your passion - coming from a place of why
• Storytellers that move us – zeroing in on examples of best in class storytelling
• Telling stories that persuade – do’s and don’ts for engaging and inspiring audiences
• Crafting & practicing stories – building stories that bring your “why” to life in 60 seconds or less