“As designers, so much of the work we do relies on our ability to tell stories; the story of a user’s needs, the story behind a design decision, the story of why and how we’ve solved problems. This is a skill we are constantly seeking to hone, and CultureBuilds by 2nd Story was an invaluable partner in helping us level up across our team. The program built collaboratively with 2nd Story was a perfect fit for all of our designers, regardless of experience, and helped elevate our skills, while also giving us a platform to improve team cohesion and collaboration.”
Storytelling Workshops
We can help you and your team tell more effective stories.
Whether it’s finding new ways to connect at networking events, improving communication among teams, or sharing engaging stories that illustrate who you are, what you do, and why you do it, clients of all sizes and types have hired CultureBuilds to help them improve their storytelling.
Potential Offerings
A STORY FOR ANY MOMENT
This workshop hones the skill of participants to use a single story for various purposes, goals, audiences, and lengths.
HANGING IDEAS ON A STORY
This workshop delves deep into the skill of using a story as a communication tool, i.e. to share a targeted message, simplify a complex concept, create buy-in, etc.
STORIES AS A LEADERSHIP TOOL
This workshop investigates the various ways a leader can use stories–to inspire, to manage, to give feedback, to build community within a team, etc.
CHANGING THE FRAMEWORK OF A CONVERSATION
This workshop supports participants to infuse conversations with stories and how to elicit stories from others. Participants will practice scenarios related to conducting interviews, engaging in employee reviews, networking, and relationship building.
USING STORIES TO HIGHLIGHT CULTURE
This workshop targets the specific storytelling skill of using stories to communicate information about the culture of the workplace. Participants will identify stories from leadership and beyond that support leaders in talking about their work, how they care for each other, and how your work environment differs from other workplaces.
Past Partners & Testimonials
“I thoroughly enjoyed the session. It was not what I was expecting it to be when I signed up, and I mean that in a good way....it got my mind thinking more creatively than I was even anticipating!
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““These new ways of storytelling about my work have already shifted my ability to make fundraising asks, write grants, talk to the press, and recruit and hire staff. As I continue to practice these storytelling skills, I’m sure their impact will only grow.””
““In our Ambassador Fellowship Program, we create space for formerly incarcerated people to develop their leadership, advocacy, and storytelling. CultureBuilds has helped us to emphasize one of our core principles, “everyone’s voice matters’’, and it would not have been possible but for the work of your supporters.”
“In front of 200 people, I tried out what I learned from 2nd Story’s CultureBuilds at the Project Directors’ meeting. I relayed our mission in the form of a story. It was wonderful. You made a real and lasting impact!”
“I typically “mentally roll my eyes” at group activities but was quickly proven wrong that you can learn so much by participating. My walls came down quickly due to your friendly, honest, and vulnerable natures - I wanted to personally thank you for that. I feel inspired to take away what I learned today and can’t wait to apply all of it, not only to engage with potential participants for the Life on My Own program at Aspire Chicago, but also directly with our participants - since their own stories can empower them to achieve their greatest level of independence. ”
“They developed a workshop that was equal parts educational, inspiring, and fun. My speakers raved about our two hours with 2nd Story’s CultureBuilds, and I rave about them wherever I go. Their workshops are run with the utmost care. The result is an inclusive, supportive, and eye-opening experience for all.CultureBuilds is committed to its craft and its community. I can’t recommend their services enough.”