Let the Story Do the Work

About the Author

Esther K. Choy is a storytelling expert and the founder of Leadership Story Lab, an organization dedicated to helping professionals master the art of storytelling. With a strong background in communications and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, Choy has honed her skills in teaching storytelling techniques to executives, managers, and students. Her work is deeply influenced by her experiences as an admissions officer at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where she recognized the power of narrative in making candidates stand out. In "Let the Story Do the Work," Choy emphasizes the strategic importance of storytelling in business, highlighting how it can be used to connect with audiences, convey complex information, and inspire action.

Main Idea

"Let the Story Do the Work" focuses on the pivotal role of storytelling in business communication. Esther K. Choy argues that storytelling is not just a soft skill but a strategic tool that can drive business success. She explores various storytelling techniques and structures, demonstrating how they can be applied to different business contexts, from pitching to networking to data presentation. The book provides practical advice on crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences, simplify complex information, and inspire action. Choy emphasizes that storytelling is an essential skill for leaders who want to connect with their teams, customers, and stakeholders on a deeper level.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why Stories?
2. Anatomy of a Story
3. Bringing Stories to Life
4. Using Your Own Story to Build Credibility and Connection
5. Successful Networking Starts with a Good Story Hook
6. Telling Stories with Data
7. Combining the Power of Story and Simple Visuals
8. Collecting Stories from Everywhere
9. The Five Basic Plots in Business Communication

Introduction: Why Stories?

In the introduction, Choy sets the stage by explaining the enduring power of stories. She notes that stories have been a fundamental part of human communication for millennia, serving as a means to make sense of the world, share knowledge, and inspire action. In the business world, storytelling has become a vital skill for leaders who need to cut through the noise of data and facts to connect with their audiences on a human level. Choy argues that stories are memorable because they engage our emotions and provide context, making complex information easier to understand and retain.