Empowering Advisory Board Members

Storytelling: Advocating for Extension

Tell Me a Story

Learning Goals• Identify three reasons for telling stories to

advocate for Extension• Identify six types of stories• Develop a story to advocate for Extension

"Tell me a fact and I'll learn. Tell me the truth and I'll believe. But tell me a

story and it will live in my heart forever."

- Indian Proverb

Storytelling Helps• Pass on traditions• Train, mentor &

coach• Empower• Recognize others• Spread the word• Have fun• Recruit• Market & advocate

• Develop managers• Introduce people• Start a meeting• Illustrate a concept• Get a point across• Begin a

conversation• Manage change

Storytelling Themes• Mistakes and failures• Unexpected opportunities• Risks and rewards• Choices and consequences• Lessons learned• Obstacles and challenges• Advice from a mentor• Someone who inspired me

Storytelling Criteria• Tell something that the listeners’ may not

know• Have a clear and persuasive message• Avoid content that is arrogant or self-

serving• Avoid sarcasm and negative comments• Avoid preaching

Storytelling Criteria• Use an identifiable concept• Relate to a current issue• Communicate empathy or understanding• Start a conversation• Include humor

Types of Stories• Who I Am Stories • Why I Am Here Stories •  My Vision Story• Teaching Stories• Values in Action Stories•  “I know what you are thinking” Stories

Storytelling Tips• Tell a personal story• Use books, fables, fairy tales & events• Tell a story about someone else• Be honest. • Be since.• Include a beginning, middle & end• Make the story visualize

Storytelling Tips• Incorporate the five senses into your•  Make eye contact and gesture naturally •  Pause•  Speak clearly and breathe normally•  Practice telling your story out loud. •  Use a story only when it is appropriate. •  Create a bridge to the main message.

Learning ApplicationDeveloping Your Extension Advocacy StoryPart I – Share a story about:• Someone who influenced you• How you became an Extension leader

Part II - Write Your Extension StoryPart III - Tell Your Extension Story

Summary

When you understand the reasons for telling stories and when you know what types of stories to tell you can begin to

develop your personal Extension advocacy story.