Creating compelling stories is about merging the mood and energy of the moment with timeless drama to craft narratives that deliver a distinctive viewpoint and honest observations, telling stories that resonate with audiences.
5 Tips for Storytellers
1) Tell a Timeless Tale Focusing on the Moment: One example of this is Brian Graden and his extensive industry experience as President of Programming at MTV, VH1, CMT, and Logo. As Vice President for Fox’s program development, Graden and the creative team at Foxlab launched “America’s Most Wanted” and “‘Cops,” shows that were like nothing that audiences had seen. “I am a voracious consumer of culture,” Graden told “New York Metro.” Now, the cycle continues, and new narratives arise. But, again, the takeaway here is to keep in touch with the times and the audiences’ needs and desires.
2) Respect Your Judgement: Another way to tell stories is to seek co-conspirators and artistic partners. For example, Trey Parker and Matt Stone created a personal Christmas video card for Graden, “The Spirit of Christmas,” which gained a massive following. When Fox passed on the Parker and Stone project, Graden left and moved with the duo to Comedy Central.
3) Recognize What Works: The idea here is to recognize when you’re putting out good work and make that your focus. If something is working brilliantly, then run with it! For example, Graden saw the potential in Parker and Stone’s brand of humor, and their work spawned “South Park.”
4) Attention: Grabbing and holding peoples’ interests is vital. With so many options for entertainment and online engagement, it’s crucial to connect with your audience. As Judy McGrath of MTV phrased it, the vision is to generate “ideas that cut through and get people’s attention.”
5) Play Respectfully with Others: Creatives can be passionate when invested in an idea. However, cooperation is paramount. For example, when management tapped Graden for president of programming for VH1 in 2002, as professional Brian Graden explained to “Mediaweek,” his one rule was “don’t trash anyone’s idea.” By the end of the year, ratings were up by 50 percent.
So, when creating stories that commemorate and celebrate our time, Brian Graden suggests focusing the spotlight on pro-social, eye-opening, on-topic, and on-target narratives. Narratives at the juncture between linear and digital entertainment; thought-provocating, emotionally engaging, and vivid tales that resonate with the audiences who love them.
