Lead your team with stories, not rules

Stories inspire. Rules constrict.
Stories are memorable. Rules are very forgettable.

You’ve seen them, or maybe you’re part of or are leading one now – an organization that is managed by rules. Do this and don’t do that, binary instructions that assume people operate like computers.

Better organizations and leaders use stories to guide their people. Sure, a few rules may be needed here or there, but stories about a wowed customer, a loyal employee or someone or something you want to emulate are far more effective.

Leading by telling more stories plants memorable reference points that provide inspiration and guidance for how to behave, in everyday situations and in ones never contemplated by a set of rules.

So stop looking for bigger binders for that ever expanding book of rules, policies or procedures that everyone wants to burn. Start looking for and telling stories.

Agree?