5 Reasons People Avoid Storytelling in Business (and What to Do Instead)

Remember that scene in “Tommy Boy” where Chris Farley’s character finally figures out how to sell brake pads? It wasn’t by rattling off specs or using toy cars. It was through storytelling. This movie moment isn’t just comedy gold; it’s a perfect example of why storytelling in business matters. Yet, many of us shy away from this powerful tool. Let’s dive into why that happens and how we can change it.

Why Professional Storytelling Matters in the Workplace

Before we jump into the reasons people avoid storytelling, let’s talk about why it’s so important. Professional storytelling isn’t about making things up or exaggerating. It’s about conveying truth in a way that sticks. When you master this skill, you’re not just sharing information; you’re creating connections, making complex ideas simple, and leaving a lasting impression.

The best part? You don’t have to be a novelist or TED Talker. Whether you’re a leader trying to rally your team or an employee pitching an idea, learning to tell a story is one of the most underrated forms of authentic communication at work.

1. Fear of Unprofessionalism: “Stories Are for Bedtime, Not Boardrooms”

Many professionals believe that storytelling doesn’t belong in a serious business environment. They think it might make them appear unprofessional or not taken seriously. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

What to do instead: Recognize that storytelling in the workplace is a sophisticated communication tool used by some of the most successful leaders and companies. Steve Jobs didn’t just list iPhone features; he told a story about how it would change our lives. Your stories can do the same on a scale that matters to your work.

2. Lack of Practice: “I’m Not a Born Storyteller”

Some people avoid storytelling because they think it’s a natural talent they don’t possess. They might have tried once, stumbled, and decided it wasn’t for them.

What to do instead: Like any skill, storytelling improves with practice. Start small. Share a brief anecdote in your next team meeting about a challenge you overcame. Pay attention to how people react and refine your technique. Remember, even Tommy Callahan had to practice before he got it right.

3. Misunderstanding of Storytelling: “I Don’t Want to Lie or Exaggerate”

There’s a common misconception that storytelling means embellishing the truth or making things up. This fear of being seen as dishonest keeps many from embracing storytelling.

What to do instead: Understand that effective workplace storytelling is about authenticity, not fabrication. Share real experiences, challenges, and solutions. Your authentic stories are powerful because they’re true and relatable. As Erin Hatzikostas puts it, it’s about “authentic, unfiltered, tough-love” communication.

4. Concern About Relevance: “My Stories Aren’t Interesting Enough”

Many professionals worry that their experiences aren’t exciting or relevant enough to share. They think storytelling in business is only for those with extraordinary tales.

What to do instead: Realize that relevance comes from relatability, not spectacle. Your story about solving an everyday work problem could be exactly what your colleague needs to hear. Focus on the lessons and insights, not the drama. The most impactful stories often come from ordinary situations handled in extraordinary ways.

5. Fear of Vulnerability: “I Don’t Want to Expose My Weaknesses”

Sharing stories often means revealing parts of ourselves, including our struggles and failures. This vulnerability can feel risky in a professional setting.

What to do instead: Embrace vulnerability as a strength. Sharing how you overcame challenges or learned from mistakes doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human and relatable. It builds trust and encourages others to open up too. Remember, the goal is authentic communication, which includes the highs and the lows.

Embracing Authentic Communication Through Storytelling

Now that we’ve addressed the reasons people avoid storytelling, let’s talk about how to embrace it. Effective storytelling in the workplace can transform dry facts into compelling narratives that engage and inspire. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about results.

In my first book, You Do You(ish), I share this insight: “...the results were the trump card to all my authentic audacity. Year after year, our earnings significantly increased. And not coincidentally, employee engagement scores and overall morale followed.”

Here’s what happened when I embraced authentic communication at work, including storytelling:

• Earnings tripled in just three years

• Employee engagement scores shot up

• The company’s culture index improved by 12 percentage points

• I personally found a better work-life balance

  
  

These aren’t just feel-good metrics; they’re tangible business results that came from a shift in communication style.

How to Get Started

So, how do you start? Begin by looking for opportunities to weave relevant stories into your work conversations. Did you learn a valuable lesson from a project? Share it. Have you overcome a challenge that others might face? Talk about it. Your experiences are unique and valuable.

Remember, storytelling in business isn’t about performance; it’s about connection. It’s about making your ideas stick and inspiring action. Just like Tommy Boy finally connecting with his customers, you can connect with your colleagues, clients, and leaders through the power of story.

Don’t let fear hold you back from this powerful tool. Embrace storytelling, practice it, and watch as it transforms not just your communication, but potentially your entire professional journey. After all, in the world of business, sometimes the best way to “do you” is to tell your story.

I give a lot more tips around storytelling in my first book, "You Do You(ish): Unleash Your Authentic Superpowers to Get the Career You Deserve." I think you'll love it.

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Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.