The Story Factor

Inspiration, Influence, and Persuasion Through the Art of Storytelling

By: Annette Simmons

Narrated by: Annette Simmons

Fully revised, updated, and expanded, this modern classic will teach you to use the art of storytelling to persuade, motivate, and inspire in life and business.

Anyone seeking to influence others must first know their own story and how to tell it properly. Whether you're proposing a risky new venture, trying to close a deal, or leading a charge against injustice, you have a story to tell. Tell it well, and you will create a shared experience with your listeners that can have profound results.

In this modern classic, Annette Simmons reminds us that the oldest tool of influence is also the most powerful. Fully revised and updated to account for new technology and social media, along with two new chapters on the role of stories in the development of civilization and how to adjust your story to your specific goal, Simmons showcases over 100 examples of effective storytelling drawn from the front lines of business and government, as well as myths, fables, and parables from around the world. Whether writing a screenplay, or announcing a corporate reorganization, Simmons illustrates how story can be used in ways that cold facts, bullet points, and directives can't. These stories, combined with practical storytelling techniques, show anyone how to become a more effective communicator and achieve their goals.

©2019 Annette Simmons (P)2020 Basic Books

Story Matters

Annette delivers actionable wisdom for aspiring and advancing storytellers. Choose your story, choose your future.

A great book worth listening again

After finishing the audio book, I still remember a few stories the author told vividly. Yes, stories telling is indeed an effective way to influence people.

Good content. Dull narration

The content is very good, although I think there were many parts that could’ve been briefer.

The narration wasn’t pleasant in my opinion. I listened to it at 1.6x speed.

Good material; painful narration

As is so often the case with authors who read their work, this author is unable to make the hard choices that a professional narrator would. Consequently, the reading, ironically by a storytelling expert, has no flow. It feels like the harmonic modulation of an unloaded truck at highway speeds. Every action word and prepositional phrase is not worthy of a comma, but that’s what I’m hearing.
I’ve slogged through about a third of the work and it is sad because the material is worthy.

Unlocking Influence: Rediscover the Magic with 'The Story Factor'.

In an age inundated with data, numbers, and fleeting digital interactions, "The Story Factor" emerges as a timeless beacon, guiding readers back to the art of authentic connection through storytelling. Annette Simmons masterfully uncovers the nuances of crafting compelling narratives, showcasing how they can transcend mere information to evoke emotion, thought, and action.

What sets this book apart is its holistic approach. It's not just about storytelling techniques, but about understanding the profound psychology behind why stories work. Simmons dives deep into the human psyche, revealing the universal archetypes and patterns that resonate with us all. She teaches not just the 'how,' but the 'why,' ensuring that readers can apply these insights across varied contexts and audiences.

Each chapter is rich with examples, making the content both tangible and relatable. From leadership scenarios to personal anecdotes, Simmons draws a clear line between theory and application. As a result, readers walk away not just entertained, but equipped and inspired to weave their own narratives.

For anyone seeking to communicate more effectively, persuade with authenticity, or simply understand the power of story in shaping our world, "The Story Factor" is not just a book; it's a revelation. In a world desperate for genuine human connection, this tome is more relevant now than ever.

Great advice for the storyteller

Annette Simmons’ book is a timeless textbook for anyone who wants to understand how story works, as well as the ancient truths that can only be captured and shared with stories. She creates clear blueprints for understanding what story is, why it is important, how it works, and how you can bring others to understand and share your goals and values. Her deep understanding of group dynamics, facilitation, and psychology inform the entire book. Importantly, she directly addresses current abuses of storytelling and delivers clear guidance on how to make sure you are using storytelling for good. She understands trust, and shows us how to write trustworthy stories. I read the book first, then later listened to her read the book on the audible version. I learned different things from both versions. 

Listen at faster speed

Authors really should understand if they have the chops to narrate their own books. Annette Simmons does not - which is a shame, since this is one the best books on storytelling I have come across. Since we are stuck with Annette’s narration, my recommendation is to up the playback speed - I listened at 1.7 and it definitely smoothed out her stilted reading and made it much easier to engage with the material. If you are interested in storytelling theory and practice, this book is essential, just don’t be shy about increasing the playback speed:

Worthy!

Read it, then listened to it. Wonderful! I highly recommend Annette Simmons The Story Factor.

DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME.

I gave it a fair shot a few times. Rambled on and on. You should try Storyworthy by Matthew DIcks instead.