Storytelling Tips

Tips for Telling Stories for What’s Your Story Slam

First, it must be your story to tell. Were you there? Are you one of the main characters? Your involvement in the events as they unfold is essential. No journalism!

No notes allowed!

What's Your Story Slam stories are told, not read. We love how each storyteller connects with the audience when there's no papers or notepads between them. Please know your stories by “heart” by being very familiar with them.

What do you have to lose?

Stakes are essential in live storytelling. What’s in it for you? Are you going to win or lose? Why is what happens in this story important to you? We want to root for you! Make us care! If you can’t answer this, then think of a different story.

WHAT TO DO:

Bring in the Action!

A striking first line grabs our attention and reels us in.

No: “So I was thinking about signing up for my first marathon. But then I watched a little documentary on Netflix about running, made a snack, took a nap and my mom called and vented about my dad then I did a little laundry and then I thought about it again and decided I’m going to sign up for the marathon tomorrow.

Yes: “I am freezing, wrapped under a trash bag in the heart of Shinjuku. I bounce as I wait for the marathon to start. Two thousand runners surround me - there's spandex everywhere!

Know your story and have fun!

Outline, memorise your bullet points and play with the details. Enjoy yourself. Imagine you are telling the story at a dinner party amongst close friends.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

Avoid long and winding endings

They kill a story. You should know your last line from the start. Bring the audience with you as you contemplate what goes on in the story. As a storyteller, you’re the tour guide. You’re the one who knows where this is going. Keep your audience with you. Don't lose them!

No sales or motivational speeches

We love how motivational speakers use stories to make a point, but this isn't a Tony Robbins special, and we are not looking for the next evangelist. It isn't the place for your startup pitch.

No stand-up routines, please.

SERIOUSLY. NO. STAND-UP. Funny people need to tell funny STORIES.

No poetry or essays

We love your sweet words, musings and sonnets, and they look great--on paper. Unless you can make them gripping and set up stakes, they won't work.

No rants

Take your anger issue with your therapist/best friend/bartender. Tell stories you’ve already had some form of resolution.

No key takeaways

NO KEY TAKEAWAYS. Leave your audience to come up with their takeaways from your story.