What are the best practices for sharing personal stories in a professional setting?

1 Know your purpose

Before you share a personal story, ask yourself why you want to tell it and what you want your audience to learn from it. Your story should align with your main topic, your objectives, and your audience's needs and expectations. It should not be a random anecdote or a way to brag about yourself, but a relevant and meaningful illustration of your point. Think of your story as a tool to support your message, not as an end in itself.

2 Respect your boundaries

Sharing personal stories requires a balance between vulnerability and professionalism. You want to show your human side, but not overshare or make your audience uncomfortable. You need to respect your own boundaries and those of others who are involved in your story. Avoid disclosing sensitive or confidential information, or details that could harm or offend someone. If you are not sure whether you should share a story, ask for permission or feedback from the people who are affected by it.

3 Craft your story

A good personal story is not just a factual account of what happened, but a compelling narrative that engages your audience's emotions and imagination. You need to craft your story with a clear structure, a hook, a climax, and a resolution. You also need to use descriptive language, dialogue, and sensory details to make your story vivid and memorable. However, you should not exaggerate or embellish your story to make it more dramatic or impressive. Be honest and authentic, and stick to the facts.

4 Adapt your story

Your personal story is not a fixed script that you repeat every time you speak. You need to adapt it to the context, the occasion, and the audience. You may need to shorten or lengthen your story, change some words or phrases, or emphasize different aspects depending on the situation. You also need to be aware of the cultural and social norms of your audience, and avoid any expressions or references that could be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Be flexible and responsive, and tailor your story to fit your purpose and your audience.

5 Deliver your story

How you tell your story is as important as what you tell. You need to use effective vocal and body language techniques to convey your emotions, your personality, and your confidence. You need to modulate your tone, volume, and pace, use pauses and gestures, and make eye contact with your audience. You also need to practice your story beforehand, but not memorize it word for word. You want to sound natural and spontaneous, not rehearsed and robotic. Be yourself, and let your passion and enthusiasm show.

6 Invite feedback

Sharing personal stories is not a one-way communication, but a dialogue with your audience. You need to invite feedback and interaction from them, and show that you value their opinions and perspectives. You can do this by asking questions, soliciting comments, or encouraging participation during or after your speech. You can also follow up with your audience through email, social media, or other channels, and thank them for their attention and input. By inviting feedback, you can build rapport, trust, and loyalty with your audience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?