Dear Dreamers and Doers,

It’s great to be back with more insight and impact for building your bold brand! In our earlier post on storytelling this month, we talked about why stories are so vital and compelling to cultural missions. If you missed it, you may catch up right here.

Now, let’s learn how to tell impactful tales that compel people to sit up and listen.

How do you harness the power of storytelling in your brand communications? Here are some key points to consider:

  • Know your core story: What’s the fundamental narrative of your organization? Why do you exist, and what change are you creating in the world?
  • Highlight personal impact: Share stories of individuals whose lives have been touched by your work. Let their voices shine through.
  • Use multiple formats: Stories can be told through words, images, video, and performance. Mix it up to engage different audiences.
  • Be specific and authentic: Avoid generalities. Focus on real details and genuine emotions.
  • Create a story bank: Regularly collect stories from staff, artists, audience members, and community partners.
  • Invite participation: Encourage your community to share their own stories related to your mission.

Ready to start your storytelling journey? Here are some questions to get you thinking:

  1. What was the moment that inspired your organization’s founding?
  2. Can you recall a time when your work made an unexpected impact on someone?
  3. What’s a challenge your organization has faced, and how did you overcome it?
  4. How has a piece of art or performance changed a visitor’s perspective?
  5. What stories from your community are not being told, and how can you help tell them?

Remember, every exhibition, every performance, every program is an opportunity to tell a story. By embracing storytelling, you’re not just building a brand — you’re weaving the narrative of your community’s cultural life.

Struggling to find your story? We’re here to help. Reach out to us at hello@thedrmtm.com for a free Happy Half Hour consultation on crafting narratives that resonate.

Here’s to stories that capture our purpose,

Surale + Laura + Cheryl

P.S. We’d love to hear your stories! Share a powerful moment from your organization’s journey and we’ll share it on social media — let’s inspire each other!