This week I’m happy to share a special interview with Jen Lee, the producer of the documentary film, Indie Kindred, which offers an intimate look at creative collaboration among independent artists.
In our interview on the power of story, Jen talks about the importance of story and the power story has in creating connection.
“When it comes to our business, I think of story as being a powerful source in establishing our credibility. As women in business, we struggle with this idea of selling ourselves or our service. We don’t want to feel like we’re tricking someone or feel slimy about it. I think the best inroad in is to keep things as relational as possible,” said Jen.
“Whether we’re making a professional connection or a friendship, story is the fabric of all relationship. All of my relationships are built on story.”
It’s always the exchange of story that’s building relationships.
There are a lot of interesting ways to introduce story. The obvious way is on the About Page. Inside every product or service we offer, there’s a story there too because it’s a part of the culmination of our journey.
We have this tendency – especially as it is tied to business — we think that our credibility is tied to the appearance of perfection and this is a fallacy. 12:50
“How much we share is what each person has to work out. Our capacity for vulnerability can stretch and expand over time. Sometimes it can start with asking – how can I let myself be a human being who is holding all my experiences, knowledge and expertise and who still has real-world challenges like everyone else. That is something to strive for,” said Jen. 14:40
“Every time I step on stage to tell a story, every time I turn on the camera to film or anytime I write something that feels a little raw, I always want to climb out of my skin every time but I don’t. I don’t expect that to go away now. This is a sign that it’s close to the heart and that it’s true.” 16:20
About Jen Lee
Jen Lee is the producer of the documentary film, Indie Kindred, which offers an intimate look at creative collaboration among independent artists. She also a publisher, producer and a performer in New York City’s storytelling scene, Jen has been featured on public radio’s Peabody Award-winning Moth Radio Hour and The Best of The Moth: Volume 15.
How are you using story in your business? How has it helped you increase engagement?
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