The Everyday Storyteller

5 storytelling shortcuts to avoid like the plague

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In the last episode, I shared 5 shortcuts to help you get your stories out into the world easier and faster. But not every quick fix is quite what it seems. 


Here are 5 potential shortcuts you’d be best to avoid:


  1. Copying other people’s work. It’s an absolute no-no. You will be caught out and it won’t be fun when you do. Being inspired by others is fine - but always make sure you credit them. 


    1. Sticking to the same tiresome formula. Using templates and recycling content using different formats are great shortcuts but saying the same things, in the same way, over and over again are not. Think about changing your hooks, adding some humour, or starting your story at the end and telling it backwards. 


      1. Leaving it to someone else to tell your story for you (who isn’t actually a storyteller). Many storytellers are also copywriters but not all copywriters are storytellers. A good storyteller slash writer should be able to create content that sounds undeniably like you, like it’s come straight from your brain via your own mouth. If they can’t, don’t waste your money. Find someone that can.


        1. Telling one story and expecting all the world’s riches to come to you. Storytelling is not a quick fix. Telling your story little and often, creating consistency in your voice, will have greater impact (and will make it a lot easier for you to do it in the long run)


          1. Making up your story coz you think it’s easier or quicker than trying to figure out what you really want or need to say. If you don’t believe what your touting, never will your audience. Take the time to work on your story. It will make it much more comfortable for you to tell it in the long term.  And will save you constantly re-writing it.


            2. Want to continue the conversation or get some extra support with telling your story? 


            Find me:

            On Instagram: @22storiesandme

            On LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hilarysalzman

            Online: www.22-stories.com


            This podcast is produced by the brilliant Suzi @story_publishing

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            The Everyday StorytellerBy Hilary Salzman