Step-By-Step Social Media Storytelling
(Updated July 2022) Seth Godin says marketing is “the art of telling a story that resonates with your audience and then spreads.” And, what we know in the network marketing profession is stories ‘sell,’ right? However, the art of social media storytelling goes well beyond the home-based business scope — it’s business, period.
Good business, I should add.
Over the last ten years, we have seen a massive shift in how marketing happens. And we believe that network marketers are at the cutting edge of this. Why? Because this business started in the relationship marketing space, not in competition for ad space or budgets.
I believe everyone (you included) has s story to share.
This post is designed to give you the most straightforward formula (and an ideal place to start) in getting your story out there. I want your story to reach beyond your existing social media audiences. I believe when executed effectively, every story has viral potential.
Are you ready?
Social Media Storytelling for Network Marketers
We all love stories.
Whether around the breakfast table or roasting marshmallows at a campfire, there are stories for every occasion. When we look at stories on a marketing platform, every brand is telling one these days, right? (feel free to drop some of your favorite brand stories in the comments)
As an example, we look at companies like Airbnb, which documents travellers’ memories worldwide.
They draw us in.
So much so, we entertain the idea of booking our travel even (guilty!)
Practical storytelling steps include a beginning, middle (climax), and end. The exact process you may have used way back in grade school even. The format is as historical as things go. The only difference is the delivery has advanced, or pain points have shifted.
Format and emotion, however, have the same golden rule.
As you go through the following steps, I encourage you to grab your notebook and pen and answer the questions or points. I recommend this for two reasons;
- The content is fresh in your mind
- You are likely to execute it if you start now
Social Media Storytelling Step 1
Who are you? This is not a stage introduction; get down to the nitty-gritty. The ‘who’ can include where you are coming from, where you’re, and lastly, where you are going. Maybe you are a parent; brag on those kids! Or, perhaps you are a tradesman, share your daily grind.
This step is where you remind your audience that you are human. You are a real person, just like them. The more relatable, the better. This is where the connection begins.
Social Media Storytelling Step 2
Build the Bridge.
Before — Describe the world with Problem (x)
After — Imagine what it’d be like having Problem (x) solved.
Bridge — Here’s how to get there.
The problem can be anything your product or service can remedy: better skin, healthier gut, more energy, fuller hair, better telephone or cruelty-free makeup. The bridge is where you invite ‘them’ in with something relatable, where you share your experience and offer to help them do the same.
Social Media Storytelling Step 3
Do not overthink this process. It is your story. No one can tell it better than you! One of the critical points that have stuck with me over the years are these three things to keep in mind before you share your story;
- Check your gut – Is this going to be interesting?
- Check your format – What is the best way to tell it?
- Identify the medium – Where will your audience consume your story?
Answering these few questions will lead you exactly where you want to go. The best part is that you already know the answers. Think of where you are presently seeing the most ‘traction’ overall. For example, creating a YouTube Channel shouldn’t even be up for discussion if you see the most engagement on Facebook.
Sure, you’ll get there but stick with where you’re at for now.
Do not overcomplicate things.
Social Media Storytelling Step 4
Do not rush the process. Your story may be best suited over several posts or videos. Piquing curiosity works just as effectively here as it does with your company content. You want people wanting to know more. Piquing someone’s interest in your journey is far more likely to attract messages and engagement than any other ‘marketing’ strategy.
Go with what you feel comfortable sharing and be vulnerable. And, don’t forget to share with your ‘audience’ that you are being vulnerable: this increases the interest and attention far beyond any fancy buzzword.
In closing, Stop using the ‘F’ word(s). Followers are your people!
A following is your community! (and don’t always loved being called ‘Followers’)
Please don’t forget to treat them like that! This way of thinking will also help you deliver your message in a much more authentic way too — try it. As effective as storytelling can be, it is essential to remember that you may only have a few seconds to communicate a story on social media, so make that opening sentence a powerful one.
Have you started using more storytelling in your business on social media? Let me know in the comments below.
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