Story is Powerful

I believe storytelling is a powerful branding strategy. It’s more powerful than a calculated algorithm or system — you see, storytelling is a strategic tool. Stories are compelling, they move you to action and enrich your experience.

Human beings love stories.

So, when I came within earshot of one on a recent vacation, it got me thinking about how impactful stories are in our daily lives and our businesses.

The Story Behind The Bottle

We sat in a restaurant and ordered a bottle of Mollydooker wine. Our server asked us if we’ve had it before. We have — many times.

She then asked us if we knew about the Mollydooker Shake. We did not.

She proceeded to tell us the meaning behind Mollydooker and their famous Mollydooker Shake. When she brought our bottle over, she performed the “shake” for us. She showed us how you have to open the wine, pour a bit into the glass, and then shake the bottle – and repeat it twice.

We were intrigued by the reasoning– the name “Mollydooker Shake” sounded like a dance move, but the purpose of the shake itself was to magnify the flavour of the wine.

I hadn’t known that.

But what was more mesmerizing was the experience itself. See, it wasn’t about the wine or even the shake for me. It was the storytelling I got to experience as I learned about the story behind the bottle that got to me.

Your Client Experience Matters

Let me ask you this: when your clients and customers meet you for the first time– do you leave them better off than when they first met you? Do you leave an impact with a story or an interesting fact about your business? Do you share how or why you started it?

See, I left that restaurant that day feeling satisfied and with more knowledge than I came in with. The service was excellent, and it left a good taste in my mouth too. I knew I’d be back.

In the same way– how your customers’ experience your service or product matters.

Branding Strategy For Your Business: Story

Our server took the time to share the story with us and it changed how we’ll experience future restaurants. Why? Now, every time we buy this wine, we remember the Mollydooker Shake.

Can you say the same for how your clients experience your brand? When they engage in your storytelling, does it shift something in them?

By using story in your business, you have the power to change your clients’ future experiences and expectations.

There’s a huge difference between a bottle of wine from your local grocery store and one infused with story. One is a carbon copy– no different at first glance than any others in its aisle– and the other is infused with meaning. It’s unique.

I’d choose uniqueness and meaning over a random bottle any day, wouldn’t you? Not only did we enjoy that glass, but we were so impressed with the story that we continue to share it with others.

The same is true in your business.

This is the power of story for your branding strategy: the potential to infuse meaning into your products and client experience that leaves them wanting more and sharing about it to their circles.

When the story is powerful enough to make an impression – one that your clients keep sharing – you’re building your brand, cultivating trust and creating a customer base that does your networking for you.

You don’t need rocket science to create a branding strategy or provide a great experience, just a simple story that means something to your customer.

And the courage to share it.

Then let them do the talking, and watch how that changes your business.

Think of a brand with a story that stands out for you. Tell me what that company/business is below in the comments!