Crafting The Perfect Pitch: Storytelling For Your AI Projects

Learn How To Use The Power Of Storytelling From Vision To Execution For AI

Aug 09, 2023

Created with Midjourney: “Business executives telling a story in front of a chart in a boardroom“

On August 01, Scott Taylor (aka “The Data Whisperer”) joined me on “What’s the BUZZ?” and shared how you can get funding for your AI projects with storytelling. How can you communicate complex ideas in a way that's not just comprehensible but truly engaging? The answer lies in storytelling. From soft skills that aren't really "soft" to the critical shift from the "why" to the "how," the influence that storytelling has in the business landscape is profound. The ability to craft a compelling narrative can mean the difference between failure and success. Whether you're seeking funding for an AI project or trying to convince your team of a new strategy, understanding the power of storytelling is indispensable. How can you become a master storyteller? Here is what we’ve talked about…

How Storytelling Influences Leaders

Storytelling is a crucial skill in business, especially when you need to communicate complex, technical subjects. If you can't capture your audience with a narrative they understand, you won't move forward. Despite being considered a "soft skill," storytelling is by no means easy. It is an essential way to change people's minds, grab their attention, and show value in a business setting. Storytelling becomes the shortcut to reach the minds of your business leaders and helps to define the brand and strategy that your company aims to accomplish.

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Putting The Most Important Message First

Starting with the "how" in business storytelling, especially in complex fields like AI or data management, often fails to resonate with an audience. People want to understand the "why" first, connecting the core message with the strategic goals of the enterprise. Focusing on the "how" can lead to confusion, especially when dealing with non-technical stakeholders. It's the "why" that captures attention and drives action.

Technical practitioners might be tempted to detail every step of the process, but this often appears tedious to outsiders. What matters more is aligning the story with the business's objectives and showing how it fits into the overall strategy. Business storytelling must drive action, not merely share information. This approach requires a journalistic style.

» So think about that end in mind. Don't start with how it's gonna get done. Don't start with how you got to today. In a lot of cases, you want to start with the end. It's not a suspense novel. «
— Scott Taylor

Like a news article that starts with a headline, putting the most crucial information at the forefront, business storytelling should do the same. The least important details should be at the end, allowing the storyteller to emphasize the key points. But having a great story isn't enough; presentation skills matter too. You must be comfortable and skilled in presenting your story, and practice is the key. Whether speaking to strangers, practicing with a Toastmasters group, or even talking to your dog, sharpening this skill is essential.

Knowing When To Shift From Vision To Execution

Transitioning from the "why" to the "how" is vital when shifting from ideas to execution. If your story has engaged your audience and they're ready to move forward, don't continue talking about the abstract vision; focus on the practical steps to make it happen. In business meetings, knowing when to shift from storytelling to execution planning is essential. Having respect for those who carry out the work and understanding the balance between vision and reality leads to effective implementation of the ideas.

Mastering The Art Of Storytelling For AI Projects

The power of storytelling is at the core of effective business communication. The ability to translate technical aspects into a narrative that engages the audience is essential. Start with the "why," focusing on the value and importance of your idea, and then move to the "how." Know when to switch from visionary storytelling to practical planning and execution. Sharpening these skills takes practice and experience, but it's vital for business success.

» You cannot get enough practice in no matter what. For some reason, we think in business we can just turn a switch and just walk in the room and say, okay, I'm gonna do that. «
— Scott Taylor

What challenges have you faced in translating technical details into engaging narratives?

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