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Storytelling 101: Sharing Your “Why” Without Sounding Salesy

  • Writer: Jillian Clare
    Jillian Clare
  • Sep 24
  • 2 min read

Here’s the truth: people don’t just buy what you sell — they buy why you sell it.

But here’s the catch: if you talk about your “why” the wrong way, it can come off like a cheesy sales pitch. The key is to share your story with authenticity, not pressure. Let’s break down how to do it.


Storytelling 101 cover with phones showing a hand writing in a notebook and a woman on video. Tan background, text on storytelling tips.

1. Start with the Spark ✨

What moment made you start your business?

  • Was it a frustration you wanted to fix?

  • A passion you couldn’t ignore?

  • A problem in your community that needed solving?

That spark is your “why” — and it’s way more powerful than a polished sales line.


2. Keep It Relatable 🤝

Your story should connect with your audience’s experience. If they can see themselves in your journey, they’ll feel like you get them. That’s how trust begins.


3. Focus on the Human Side 💬

Instead of “We provide innovative solutions for small business owners,” try:👉 “I started this because I was tired of wasting hours on tools that didn’t work for me.”See the difference? One sounds corporate. The other sounds human.


4. Show, Don’t Sell 🎭

When you tell your story, don’t end it with a hard pitch. Instead, let the story naturally connect to your product or service. People will understand the link without you needing to push.


5. Keep It Short & Sweet 🍬

Your “why” doesn’t need to be a novel. One or two clear, authentic sentences can be just as powerful as a long backstory.


🌟 Example in Action

Instead of:❌ “We’re committed to delivering the best skincare products at affordable prices.”


Try:✅ “I started making skincare because I was tired of not finding products gentle enough for my sensitive skin. Now I help others who’ve felt the same frustration.”

Which one feels more real? Exactly.


The Bottom Line: Figure Out Your Why & Share It

Your story is your superpower. When you share it authentically, your audience connects with you — and that connection is what leads to sales.


Remember: you’re not selling your “why.” You’re sharing it. And when you do it right, your audience will lean in, not scroll past.


xx

J

 
 
 

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