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GREAT COMMUNICATION SECRETS OF GREAT LEADERS
Simulations are more elaborate role-plays. They typically involve
longer, more detailed play-acting based on an established storyline, usually
a case study. Various participants assume the role of members of the organi-
zation, such as vice president of finance, vice president of marketing, direc-
tor of engineering, or middle management functionaries. Simulations can
last up to a day, or longer. They may even involve replays if the facilitator
provides additional variables that may affect the outcome. Both role-plays
and simulations, however, are nothing more than elaborate story-telling
exercises. They involve multiple players, as opposed to a single storyteller,
but they are stories nonetheless.
IMPORTANCE OF TELLING STORIES
Stories are important to us. From the days of our tribal ancestors, we have been
sharing tales, shaping fables, and writing plays about the human condition.
Why? Because these stories, with their rich context and stylized character, cast
a window of light into our souls. And from that experience we learn more
about who we are and who we might become. Leadership that is rooted in
story and guided in story is leadership that is centered in the human condition,
which ultimately is where it belongs.

Communications Planner: Telling Stories
with a Leadership Point of View

The ability to tell stories is a good leadership attribute. Abraham Lincoln
used his storytelling abilities, honed as a country lawyer in Illinois, to
make his points as artfully as he could. Stories can be powerful ways to
bring people together.
1. Identify the stories in your organization. What obstacles did
your company overcome as it became what it is today? Spec-
ify the context and character of each.
2. Identify the legends in your organization. Why are they leg-
ends? What things did they accomplish? What leadership
lessons can you draw from their example?
3. If your organization has been around for more than 5 years,
make a practice of inviting veterans in your company to spend
time with newcomers. Ask them to share stories of the old days
so that new people can get a sense of time, place, and culture.