Ron, a youth minister at a church where I was serving as Interim Pastor, came to me one Sunday following the worship service to tell me he was “quitting”. He was going to resign as volunteer youth minister because, in his words, “They won’t talk. I can’t get them to talk about our lessons. They just sit there. It’s not working.”
I asked Ron to explain what was happening and their reaction. As the conversation was unfolding I realized one key factor in Ron’s leading these teenagers. Ron was in his early thirties and was using stories and illustrations that were relevant to him and to his coworkers – people his age.
I encouraged Ron to try a different approach with the teens. Find stories and illustrations that appeal to 15-17 year olds, not 32 year old adults. “Ask them for illustrations.”
Four weeks later I asked Ron if he had tried my suggestions and how it was working. His face lit up, his body language showed excitement as he exclaimed, “It’s great. It has totally changed. Now, I can’t get them to stop talking (about the lesson).”
Understanding your audience and providing stories and illustrations that appeal to your audience is crucial. Once you understand this one key factor, your leadership will change – and if like Ron, it will change dramatically.
It is always best to insure your audience can relate. The more they can relate to your story,
the more they’ll take notice. The more they take notice, the more they will remember.
There are basically three story plot types.
1, Challenge Plot – This type story has built within it a challenge for one (or more) of the characters. How did he/she handle the challenge? Did he overcome the challenge? If so, how, what steps did he take? Is the person or group you are dealing with up against a challenge? (David and Goliath is a great challenge plot story – 1 Samuel 17.)
2, Connection Plot – The connection plot story includes elements that allow the listener to connect to what is happening in the story. If a person or your whole team is struggling to move forward, share a story of someone who could not seem to get ahead until she had a mental breakthrough and succeeded at the task at hand. (The Good Samaritan is a great connection plot story – Luke 10:25-37.)
3, Creativity Plot – Using a creativity plot story unlocks the deeper thought regions of people’s brains to find solutions for their impending issues. (Solomon and the two mothers provides a creative plot story – 1 Kings 3:16-28.)
Each of these types engage the deeper listening skills of hearers enlivening sensory receptors that will bring about needed change. Stories do not have to be lengthy. I have used and have read of others using three to five sentences to share a story that elevated progress in their teams.
Learning how and when to use each of these three types of plot stories will enhance your leadership and bring more effectiveness to your team and organization – I guarantee it! Remember, stories stick.
George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life. Click here to receive this blog in your email inbox each Tuesday.