The Fusion of Storytelling and Improv in Online Community Building
Could your online community be more than just a digital meeting place? Could it be a dynamic network that actively elevates your brand?
Algorithms and analytics only tell part of the story. This article comes from an insightful conversation I had with Ahmadou Diallo on the "Talk About Your Community" live stream.
Diallo, a griot in the Senegalese tradition, talked with me about the untapped power of storytelling and improvisation in community building. This isn't a sideshow; it's a serious strategy aimed at executive leaders and senior managers who are committed to significantly enhancing their online community engagement.
The Human Connection Through Storytelling
Storytelling is an integral part of human culture. It's not just a means to pass time around a campfire but a deeply ingrained method to capture attention and spark curiosity. In online community building, storytelling can serve as a magnetic force that draws people in, creating a common emotional ground and enhancing a sense of belonging.
But the impact of storytelling doesn't end at engagement. A well-crafted narrative adds a layer of authenticity and credibility to your brand or community. It humanizes the entity behind the screen, turning it into a relatable character in the eyes of community members. This relationship built on trust translates into increased loyalty and advocacy, elevating the community from a mere platform to a dynamic, living entity.
Borrowing "Yes, and..." from Improv Comedy
Incorporating the "Yes, and..." philosophy into community interactions is like flipping a switch from transactional to transformational. It's about amplifying voices, not shutting them down. It's about adding to the narrative, making the interaction a dialogue rather than a monologue.
This approach cultivates a climate of inclusivity and engagement, where each member feels heard, valued, and motivated to contribute further.
The Arc Storytelling Framework
Let's pivot to a strategy that blends storytelling and improvisation: the Arc Storytelling Framework. This structure encourages community members to collaboratively construct a narrative, piece by piece, each person adding a layer to the unfolding story.
Acceptance: Each contribution is accepted without question, allowing the narrative to evolve organically.
Building: The story grows incrementally as each member adds their unique perspective.
Collaboration: The collective effort results in a narrative that couldn't have been crafted by a single individual.
By implementing this framework, a community can generate compelling narratives, share collective experiences, and weave a fabric that holds the community together.
Conclusion
The intricacies of modern community building demand a fresh approach, one that goes beyond algorithms and analytics.
Storytelling and improvisation offer invaluable tools for community architects aiming to build authentic, engaging, and resilient communities in today's digital landscape. As you navigate your online community strategy, remember that the "Yes, and..." mindset and the Arc Storytelling Framework can serve as your compass and map, guiding you toward a community that not only exists but thrives.
Whether you're an executive leader looking to invest in community building or a seasoned community strategist, the power of storytelling and improv can't be overlooked. They offer a robust framework for creating narratives and interactions that resonate, foster trust, and drive engagement.
About Ahmadou Diallo
Ahmadou Diallo is an Afropean, a blend of Senegalese and French heritage known as SénéGaulois. He is on a journey to share his unique story for future generations, offering them the chance to understand his life from his own perspective. Diallo identifies as a griot, a term from Senegal that goes beyond mere storytelling to encompass a role as a cultural historian and community connector. He is an integral part of multiple communities across Europe and Africa.
Ahmadou’s LinkedIn
About the Show
'Talk About Your Community' is a weekly live stream for leaders, technologists, entrepreneurs, and community builders. It's a platform to discuss community building and digital strategy.
Show Notes
Why use storytelling in community management (09:47): More engagement, improved brand perception, and increased loyalty and advocacy are a few examples of why storytelling in community management can be beneficial.
A.R.C Storytelling Framework (17:00): Ahmadou leads Todd through an improv exercise where they tell a story together through advance, color, and recall. Together, they create a story about a blind bee named Buzz, who goes on an adventure to find flowers for his mom.
The Power of Collaborative Storytelling (30:03): Collaborative storytelling exercises, such as icebreakers or creative exercises, provide a safe space for co-creating stories and allow participants to unleash their creativity and imagination.
Application of Storytelling Framework to Branding and Communication (43:48): Ahmadou suggests using the framework to narrate how a brand's product or service solves specific pain points for its target customers. By structuring the story around 'Once Upon a Time,' the problem, unique benefits, and an unforgettable offer, brands can create compelling narratives that resonate with their audience and communicate their value effectively.
