How to craft your story: Advice from Patrick Collison

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Aug 25, 2023
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How to craft your story: Advice from Patrick Collison
Crafting a compelling story is crucial in connecting with your audience and evoking the necessary emotions. However, translating what makes sense in your head to resonate with others can be challenging. The key is to focus on creating a story that not only makes sense but also connects with people on a deeper level.
When it comes to telling your story, discussing the features, advantages, and benefits of your offering may not be effective. This approach is more suitable for customers, whereas investors or potential employees are looking for something more. Investors want to feel a sense of safety, curiosity, and the potential for massive growth. Employees, on the other hand, want to feel a sense of wonder, belonging, and adventure. By crafting a story that encompasses your vision, mission, and purpose, you can attract both investors and talent.
To create the perfect pitch, Patrick Collison suggests using the 3P Framework: Purpose, Passion, and Potential. Start by writing about yourself, your team, why you care, and your vision for the future. This gives insight into your background, team dynamics, and overall vision. Then, interview the founders to delve deeper into their personal stories and the driving force behind starting the company. What event or experience led to the decision to start the company? What is the ultimate outcome you envision for your company? By answering these questions, you can uncover the essence of your story and convey it effectively to your audience.
Incorporating elements of speeches, pop culture, and moments in the zeitgeist can also enhance your story's emotional impact. These elements tap into nostalgia and other emotions, creating a connection with the listener. By understanding the triggers that resonate with your audience, you can make them feel more connected to your message.
It's important to note that your story will evolve over time. The story you tell at the pre-seed stage will differ from the one you tell during Series A. As your startup grows and achieves success, your story should reflect that growth and progress. Embrace the evolution of your story as it signifies a healthy and thriving business.
In addition to crafting your story, Patrick Collison offers some actionable advice for personal growth. He emphasizes the value of making friends over the internet with people who excel in areas you're interested in. The internet provides a vast opportunity to connect and learn from experts in various fields. Leverage this advantage to expand your knowledge and network.
Collison also encourages going deep on things and becoming an expert. By focusing on specific areas of interest, you can develop a deep understanding and mastery of those subjects. This expertise can set you apart and open doors to new opportunities.
Furthermore, he advises reading extensively and not judging your success based on your current peer group. Constantly seek knowledge and broaden your horizons through reading. Don't limit your growth by comparing yourself to others; instead, focus on your own personal development.
Collison also suggests working on making a good first impression, cultivating a sense of humor, and improving public speaking skills. These skills can greatly impact how others perceive and connect with you, whether it's in personal or professional settings.
Lastly, Collison urges individuals to develop their own worldview and not be swayed by prevailing beliefs. Many commonly held beliefs may be mistaken, and it's crucial to critically analyze and form your own opinions. If your path seems different from that of your friends, it might indicate that you're on the right track.
In conclusion, crafting a compelling story is essential for connecting with your audience, attracting investors and talent, and conveying your vision effectively. By following the advice of Patrick Collison, you can create a story that resonates with people on a deeper level. Additionally, his actionable advice for personal growth can help you expand your knowledge, skills, and network. Embrace the power of storytelling and leverage the opportunities provided by the internet to propel your success.
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