At the core, those of us at GFM and CenterTable consider ourselves storytellers. Whether we’re developing social media content, drafting press releases or preparing talking points, we know that telling a great story is key to capturing our audience. So, imagine our delight at finding this infographic that details seven basic storytelling structures:

• Overcoming a monster
• Rags to riches
• Voyage and return
• The quest (pictured at right, click through link above to see others)
• Comedy
• Tragedy
• Rebirth

How to use story plot lines

By breaking down each story structure’s plot lines and inserting your own personal experience, it’s possible to turn almost any story into an engaging presentation. For example, use a rags to riches plot line to show how you harness vulnerabilities to achieve results. The tragedy plot line is perfect to showcase how learning from mistakes presents an opportunity to improve and succeed the next time.

Make it personal

Whether you’re preparing a personal or a brand-related presentation, it’s important to remember that making it personal will help the target audience connect with the information. Does your founder have an interesting story? How and why does the brand give back to the community? Answer some key questions and choose your plot line and your presentation is sure to be a success.