5 Stories Every Founder Should Tell

Let’s Get To It

Time is money, and as a storyteller, your words can also hold value. If you have an audience genuinely interested in your message, it's crucial to maximize that opportunity. Using a story format to express your ideas can package complex information into memorable segments, making your message more impactful.

Did You Know?

According to Stanford Marketing Professor, Jennifer Aker, “(s)tories are remembered up to 22 times more than facts alone.” Which makes them an ideal to incorporate narrative design into your sales pitch. In a world inundated with all kinds of information, improving your storytelling skills can improve your chances of standing out. If you want someone to remember you, and your idea, it may be a good idea to have a little story to tell when the time comes.

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TOOLS OF MASS PRODUCTION

These are the tools I use to make this newsletter dream a reality. But, even further, they keep me organized so I can be as productive as possible. In today’s marketplace, automation is the key to be efficient and consistent. Use the following tools to write your stories, plan your projects, and run your business.

1. Notion is my favorite productivity tool for organizing my thoughts and tracking my projects. With AI built-in, you have a thought partner to help you flesh out your stories. Sign up here!

2. Beacons.ai has been a game changer in terms of providing a robust platform for content creators. It comes with a website, press kit, and link-in-bio page. I was even able to create a store with digital products and services. Only took me a couple hours to set it all up. Check it out.

3. Beehiiv is the newsletter platform I use to deliver this newsletter to you. It is easy to use, and provides several ways to monetize your platform. Looking for an easy way to share your vision…take a look at what they have to offer here

5 Stories Every Founder Should Tell

The following stories will help you communicate who you are, what you are passionate about doing, for whom you are doing it for, and how you’ll get it done. Sharing these stories strategically will help you to not overshare and seem naive. Look for the cues, and know when and what to share. In the beginning of your journey, we just need to get people interested.

Founder Story

A narrative that highlights your skills and experiences that have led you to a particular opportunity.

Cue: “So, what brings you to this event?” or “ Tell me a little bit about yourself?”

“My name is AJ, and I have 20 years of experience in technology sales. Despite my extensive sales background, I had a strong desire to transition from retail sales to a full-time business writer. However, I was unsure of how to begin this transition. Aware that others might be facing a similar dilemma, I am keen to provide assistance.”

User Story

This is a tale about a user, an account of who they are, and a glimpse into the challenges they face while trying to solve the problem that our solution aims to address.

Cue: “Who is your customer? Who are you targeting to help?”

"Well, according to The New York Times in 2002, 81% of all Americans believe they have a story to tell. Of these, 97% start the story, but only 3% finish it. Those who don't finish usually quit halfway, getting lost in formatting, or lacking the necessary frameworks to write a marketable story. Specifically, I aim to target founders trying to raise capital for their startups. Exciting!"

Problem Story

This story delves deeper into the problem and its current solutions. This conflict is significant for your user, so it's essential to emphasize its stress-inducing nature. This is aimed at eliciting an emotional response from your listeners and/or readers.

Cues: “What problem are you solving? How is it solved now?”

"Currently, people take courses, attend workshops, read books, network, and discuss their ideas with many individuals before even bringing a concept to market. Consequently, they miss opportunities due to imposter syndrome, not knowing what they don't and being paralyzed by the fear of being wrong."

Product Story

This is a story that illustrates the value proposition of your solution and how it addresses the problem at hand.

Cues: “What does your Product do? And how is it different? How will you solve it?”

"So, I'm providing a newsletter consultancy that teaches people easy steps they can take to start realizing their ideas. Mainly, I encourage folks to sell their story first by using cinematic plotting to build compelling narratives that prompt your audience to take action on your platform. I'll also share opportunities to pitch your ideas, share your stories, and connect you with resources to improve your technical skills."

Strategy Story

A brief overview of the business model, focusing on capturing customers.

Cues: “How will you make money? How will you capture customers?”

“My newsletter, "Designer Stories," operates on a freemium model. Users can access a significant amount of content for free. However, by subscribing, they gain access to exclusive content, curated pitch events, and a Discord server. This platform allows them to share their stories with investors and fellow founders on a daily basis, fostering an environment for constructive feedback.”

Ready to Write Your Story?

It's time to act. You've deliberated, researched, and sought advice sufficiently. As a self-starting, hardworking individual with faith in your abilities, it's time to move forward.

So, let's schedule a meeting to write these stories. Your vision begins with what is written. Take that first step and schedule the time. Although I'm offering you 15 minutes of my time for free, you're welcome to pay whatever you feel is appropriate. Every contribution counts. I’m only doing 10 of these, and the spots are filling up fast. Let's really get to it!