Mastering the Project Narrative: Storytelling as a Strategic Leadership Skill – Ward and Cuppernull
Abstract:
When asked to identify barriers to innovation on their project, almost nobody says, “My own inability to communicate gets in the way of our project’s success.” And yet…
Good project managers have a solid handle on the technical and financial details of their projects, but the best PMs tell their project’s story in a way that is compelling and memorable. Their stories ensure stakeholders understand what the project is about and build buy-in and support for the project’s objectives.
In this high-energy keynote workshop, Dan and Lynne tell stories that inspire and equip participants with techniques to tell stories of their own. They will illustrate both how to tell better stories and why stories matter plus introduce a variety of storytelling frameworks, from Kindra Hall’s Stories That Stick to Pixar’s Story Spine.
Dan and Lynne will explore the delicate balance between technical precision and emotional resonance, teaching PMs how to find the “sweet spot” of detail that keeps stakeholders engaged without losing the technical integrity of the work. Crucially, they will shift the perspective from storytelling as an innate talent to storytelling as a masterable skill that can be studied, practiced, and refined.
Interactive Element: The Story Lab
In the second half of this workshop, participants will be invited to put the frameworks into action. Using a current project challenge, attendees will craft and “live-test” a short narrative, receiving immediate feedback on clarity, emotional impact, and audience resonance.
This session bridges the gap between technical rigor and human-centric leadership, an essential skill for modern project success. By the end of this workshop, participants will not just have a new tool in their belt, they will have a new way of seeing their role as the “Author” of their project’s success.
PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills
Storytelling Workbook (handout)
LinkedIn (Lynne Cuppernull)
LinkedIn (Dan Ward)
