Think different.
In 1997 Apple launched the iMac with what is widely considered to be one of the greatest ad campaigns ever created: "Think Different."
Most people don't realize that despite using only two words and a picture, this was a storytelling campaign. Here’s how it works.
To level up your storytelling, visit https://www.rustleandspark.com/story
Extract and Extrapolate!
Storytelling lets you say all kinds of things that would otherwise come across as boastful or unbelievable. Here’s how.
How do I show I'm a hard worker without saying it?
How do I talk about my strengths without sounding boastful?
How do I use storytelling when switching careers?
Stop Making Claims
If you’re trying to be persuasive, there is a specific order in which you need to introduce information to be effective.
Why don't people believe me when I make a claim?
How do I overcome objections?
Should I lead with facts or a story?
I’m Rubber, You’re Glue
In job interviews, you want to speak well of others—here’s why.
What happens when I talk badly about my old boss?
How should I talk about a difficult coworker in an interview?
Why does bad-mouthing people backfire on you?
What’s Up with Green M&M’s?
Here’s the true story behind a classic rock legend that has important lessons for keeping teams on track.
Why do small details matter in business?
How do I know if a client actually followed my instructions?
What can a rock band's contract teach us about attention to detail?
Imposta? Basta!
Feeling "impostor syndrome?"
As the Italians say, "Basta! – Enough!" Here’s a way to banish impostor syndrome for good.
How do I overcome impostor syndrome?
Why don't reassurances from other people (like "You're amazing") actually cure impostor syndrome?
How journaling from the future help beat impostor syndrome
Succeed with Story Journaling (WOOP! There it is!)
Is positive thinking a magical gateway to success or counterproductive navel-gazing? The answer is YES! It depends how you go about it.
What is the WOOP method?
Why do positive affirmations backfire?
How can I manifest the future I want?
How to Connect in an Instant
There's one surefire way to connect with other people immediately. Learn how it works in under five minutes.
How does storytelling build connection?
Why do stories create bonding?
What practical technique creates genuine connection with someone?
But How Should You Start?
When using storytelling to drive sales, where should you start? And what should your story be about? Here's the answer in under three minutes—enjoy!
How do I use storytelling to drive sales?
How do I close bigger deals faster?
How should I listen for better sales?
How to Know You Have Their Attention
As soon as a story starts happening, the teller and audience all experience a sudden jolt of cortisol, the hormone that causes us to suddenly pay close attention. Here's an example of how powerful and automatic that jolt can be!
Why do stories make people focus?
How do I get people to pay attention to me?
How do I get people to really listen when I speak?
Don’t Get Bitten by the Leopard Effect!
Mid-afternoon meetings can be challenging. Here’s how to make sure everyone is awake and attentive.
How to I get people to focus when I’m speaking?
How do I win over an audience?
How do I get people to pay attention to my presentation?
Don’t Get Pigeonholed!
Here’s how to avoid getting pigeonholed by just one part of your career.
How do I describe a complex career?
How do I create a through line for my career?
How should I describe myself in job interviews?
The Ethics of Persuasion
The tools of persuasion are very powerful. Here’s an easy way to be sure you’re using them responsibly.
What’s the difference between persuasion and manipulation?
How do I persuade people?
How do I make people do what I want?
Introducing StoryStrengths
Introducing a revolutionary approach to the modern job search that optimizes for bots AND humans!
The ONE word that wrecks a story
There’s ONE kind of word that instantly drains the power out of your story. Find out what it is—and why it’s so pernicious!
What mistakes should I avoid in storytelling?
How do I tell a good story?
Why don’t my stories move people? Why are my stories boring?
Communication, trust, and leadership
What you say is who you are. Your words can inspire people to lean in—or tune out.
Why do people ignore the boss?
How do I get my team to listen to me?
How do I get people to pay attention?
Bye-bye DEI?
With the results of the 2024 election signaling a departure from the politics and priorities of the past four years, how should Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and event planners approach diversity, equity, and inclusion programming?
How should I approach diversity?
How does DEI help my business?
Why do I need storytelling training?
Commence to Be Human
This year, choose a commencement speaker who’ll point graduates toward their greatest strength.
Which sectors are most vulnerable to disruption from generative AI?
Why can't AI form authentic human connection?
What should speakers do in the age of AI?
Facts Can Wait
Why is there such a defined structure to successful persuasive communication—and what is it?
What is the difference between "System 1" and "System 2" thinking?
Why don’t facts persuade people?
How do I persuade people?
Good Experience Design is Obsolete
Good experience design used to be vitally important for companies’ success in a wide range of fields. What happened?
What makes for good design?
Is design important?
Why do I need human designers?