Storytelling, Using the Two Quarterback Principle

By Matt Curtis
Oct 19, 2023

"If you have two quarterbacks, you don't have one." It's a metaphor that extends to storytelling, perfectly illustrating the perils of trying to serve multiple audiences or please everyone. Whether through presentations, blog posts, or everyday conversations, attempting to cater to an excessively broad audience can lead to a muddled and ineffective message.

Pick an Audience, Know Why They Care, Connect to Their Situation

Taking the time to understand your audience is crucial to crafting a message that resonates and connects.  Your message requires a singular focus. When you attempt to cater to too many disparate groups or individuals, your message becomes vague and diluted. It lacks the specificity required to address the unique interests, concerns, and expectations of each audience segment. As a result, your message may fail to engage anyone profoundly, leaving you with an audience that doesn't feel the content was meant for them.  

Understanding your audience also involves recognizing why your message is beneficial to them. Every audience has distinct needs and goals. By understanding these, you can tailor your content to highlight the benefits and solutions that matter most to them. This personalization makes your message not only relevant but also valuable to your audience, increasing their interest and engagement.

Exploring the expertise level of your audience is essential. A storyteller must match your communication style and depth to your audience's knowledge. Whether you're discussing advanced technical topics or sharing basic information, knowing your audience's familiarity with the subject matter is crucial to ensuring that your message is comprehensible.  

Finding common ground is the key to building a connection. It fosters trust and rapport, making your audience more receptive to your message. By identifying common interests, values, or experiences, you create a bridge between you and your audience, reinforcing the idea that your message is not just for them but also with them.

Understanding your audience is paramount in effective communication. It prevents the pitfall of trying to please everyone, ensuring that your message is specific, relevant, and valuable. It allows you to tailor your content to your audience's expertise, making it more engaging and comprehensible. Finally, finding common ground strengthens the connection, making your message more relatable and impactful. Just as in football, having one clear quarterback is essential for success; having one well-defined audience is vital for effective communication.

Hungry for more?

Discover more ideas to improve your business

Change Managed. An Adaptive Framework

Explore Phi Research's comprehensive four-phased change management framework, prioritizing employee empowerment, engagement, and sustainable progress. Learn how this holistic approach fosters adaptability, minimizes resistance, and ensures long-term success in today's dynamic organizations.

Executing Digital Transformations as Digital Evolutions: A Strategic Approach to Success

Digital transformations don't have to be overwhelming. By executing them as a series of digital evolutions, organizations can align technology with goals, foster collaboration, and make precise decisions. Discover a methodical approach that prioritizes value and precision, ensuring success in the ever-changing digital landscape with Phi Research.

Building Hermes – our website chatbot: from Cookie Cutter to our Exceeding Expectations

Embark on the transformative journey of Hermes, our website chatbot, from a basic tool to a sophisticated AI-powered assistant. This post unveils our challenges, strategy shifts, and the innovative approaches that led to Hermes not just meeting but exceeding our expectations in engaging users and generating leads efficiently.

Book a Meeting & Find Balance with Change Management
Let's make your vision a reality
Bring harmony to your business
Start Now