As a social media manager and educator specializing in teaching Instagram to women over 40, I often emphasize the importance of storytelling. Today, I want to share a personal experience that highlights why telling your story is crucial for connecting with your audience.
The Conference Room Revelation
My son was in 5th grade when it happened. My 6 foot 5” husband and I squeezed into the small chairs in his classroom, awaiting our parent-teacher conference. The young, vibrant teacher smiled at us and said, “I LOVE Ben. He makes me laugh so much I have to hide it most of the time, that kid is so funny. BUT we need to work on toning it down in the classroom.”
A long pause followed as she looked for our reaction. My husband and I exchanged confused glances. Finally, I blurted out, “We’re the Studers.” I thought she had us confused with parents of one of the three other Bens in the classroom. The silence grew longer until she finally said, “You don’t know.”
The Unexpected Discovery
At that moment, I wanted the worn classroom rug to swallow me whole. No, we had no idea what she was talking about. She then shared story after story about my son, who was not only entertaining his classmates daily but also one of the most popular kids in the class.
We left that meeting laughing but scratching our heads. My kid? The class clown? At home, he was so serious that his sisters nicknamed him “DadBen”.
A Pivotal Parenting Moment
What happened next was a pivotal moment in my parenting journey. I realized I was missing out on KNOWING my son. That realization stung, and I decided right then that I would never miss another funny story he had to share. Ever since that conference, I’ve made it a point to give him the floor, especially during the first ten minutes of dinner. I ask him if he has any stories to share or if something funny happened at school.
Our dinners have never been the same. We laugh and laugh. This kid has such a gift for storytelling. I am so glad I no longer miss out.
The Importance of Sharing Your Story
The truth is, you have a story too. Everyone does, especially those of us with a few years behind us! You’ve accomplished so many amazing things, and sharing your story is how we connect with the world.
Are You Depriving Your Audience?
Are you, like my son Ben, depriving your audience of your story? Let the people KNOW you. Life is so much better when you are KNOWN. I encourage you to tell your story and include it in your social media, often! Remember, you will get sick of your story way before your audience does. Mainly because they probably haven’t heard it. Like me and my husband, most of your audience—90% of them—have not heard your story.
Keep Telling Your Story
Keep telling your story. I cannot wait to hear what you have to say. Hit reply and please tell me if this resonates with you or if I am all alone in my conference room trauma.
Ready to share your story and enhance your social media presence? Join my community of women over 40 and learn the basics of Instagram with my beginner-friendly courses. Let’s embark on this journey together! Join Social Media For Women Over 40 and you will have a community of women who get it.
XO,
Amy ❤
