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!

Dear Dreamers and Doers,

Welcome back to our journey through DRMTM’s ten Bold Brand truths. We’ve reached #7, and it’s one that resonates deeply throughout human history: Tell a great story.

“Let me tell you a story.” When someone begins a sentence this way, there’s a reason we are instantly captivated. Our brains are wired for narrative. Stories aren’t just entertainment; they’re how we make sense of the world, connect with others, and find meaning in our experiences. For arts and culture organizations, storytelling isn’t just a suggestion — it’s essential to your brand’s success.

Why is storytelling so vital? Here’s the heart of it:

1. Emotional Connection: Stories bypass our logical defenses and speak directly to our hearts. When you share a compelling narrative about your mission’s impact, you’re not just informing — you’re inviting your audience to feel something profound together.
2. Relevance and Relatability: Through stories, you show how your work touches real lives. This builds relevance and helps individuals see themselves reflected in your mission.
3. Authenticity: Stories provide a genuine way to communicate your values and purpose. They reveal the human side of your organization, fostering trust and connection.
4. Diversity and Inclusion: Storytelling allows you to magnify diverse voices and experiences, acknowledging the rich tapestry of your community.
5. Memory and Impact: People may forget facts and figures, but they remember stories. A well-told story can leave a lasting impression about your organization’s value and meaning.

Arts and culture organizations are uniquely positioned as storytellers. You’re not just sharing narratives — you’re preserving and creating them. Your exhibitions, performances, and programs are living stories that reflect and shape your community’s identity.

Stay tuned for our next post on 8/21, where we’ll reveal the keys to harnessing the power of storytelling in your brand communications. We’ll also throw in some questions to get you going on your storytelling journey.

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 to help you craft a narrative that resonates.

Here’s to telling tales that touch hearts,

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!