3 storytelling tips for your cause

Storytelling, the art of telling stories, plays a big role in our work. From donor presentations to public speeches, but how can you do it effectively and innovatively?

Here are the secrets from three social leaders who are transforming Latin America.

1. Know Your Audience

To craft your pitch, it’s essential to understand who you’re speaking to. Not all audiences are the same, and what resonates with one may not work for another. Research your audience’s interests and values to figure out how to make your message connect with them.

Tania Rosas, founder of El Origen and a fellow from our first Propel Fellowship cohort, believes that the key is presenting your organization's mission in a way that aligns with the audience's interests.

To structure it, Tania suggests asking yourself: What do I feel this person or entity can contribute to my mission? This exercise allows you to express how your mission will be strengthened in a way that resonates with the audience.

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2. Tailor Your Message

A good pitch is not a copy-paste of previous presentations. Each presentation should have a unique approach based on your audience and the context. Oriana Torres, Director of Development & Strategic Partnerships at LALA, shares:

“The biggest mistake is thinking that your pitch is universal. There's a 50% that doesn’t change—the essence of your organization—but there should always be flexibility to adjust certain aspects based on the audience.”

At LALA, they use the Story of Self, Us and Now model, which articulates shared values through stories. This model aims to connect challenges, decisions, and outcomes to encourage action.

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3. Balance Data with Emotions

A winning pitch balances the hard facts with emotional appeal. Use impact statistics from your project alongside human stories about your cause.

Alba Carrasco, Executive Director of Fundación Ixcanul and a fellow from cohort 6, incorporates personal experiences and reflections to help the audience feel more connected.

You can also use digital tools to quickly craft your pitch. Alba recommends:

"I use ChatGPT to refine my ideas, making them more concise, impactful, and effectively connecting with my audience."

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Try these tips to craft your own pitch and convey your mission powerfully. Boost your storytelling skills on Wednesday, September 25, at our Strengthen Your Impact Story workshop. Sign up here.

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