Meghan did a fantastic job of directing her story, taking full control over her image and leaving all controversies in the shadow. Entrepreneurs- take notes.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock in the past week, you must have heard 'Suits' star, actress Meghan Markle is to become a Princess.
Fairy tales usually sketch a clear description of what princesses are made of – a claim to royal blood, rich legacy and etiquette school. So how did Markle successfully turn the conversation from her potential controversies (a 36-year-old, biracial American divorcée) to a focus on her suitability for the royal role?
Here are 3 lessons we get from Markle:
1- Direct the Narrative
It’s all about the story you tell the world, the story you direct others to read and understand about you. Markle did the impossible and quickly changed the story and took control of her image and narrative.
Your story better not include a romantic elaboration about the founders, for example. The elements of your story need to capture what your service or product provides, who it is aimed towards and what makes it unique. These elements will also pave your marketing strategy.
2 - Focus on your Strengths
Markle, who is an avid humanitarian and an advocate for U.N. Women, made her upcoming role all about that. In her first interview after the royal enouncement, Markle focused on a clear message to the audience she was hoping to capture, the British people: “You realize that as you have access or a voice that people are willing to listen to, it comes with a lot of responsibility, which I take seriously.”
Just like that, without anyone noticing, she was able to control the conversation, perception, and build her new royal brand. The unconventional elements of her story were quickly forgotten.
You want to make sure the potential client is who the story is aimed to capture. Remember, the clients, just like the British people for Markle, are the enablers of your success. That is why they, not the founders, better be the stars of your story, leaving all controversies or disadvantages in the shadow.
3 - Include Key Elements every time
Whenever you talk about your startup, capture what it is you offer, not complicated or intricate --- clear and simple. Everyone within your extended network needs to understand your story.
Media, press releases and such are not as significant as your direct message to your clients, just like we all communicate with one another, discussing what we need or want.
Your story is crucial not only to your potential clients; you are also crafting your story for current and potential team members and partners. Just remember Meghan Markle, conducting the right story, step by step, in front of the entire kingdom. Startups can use the same technique to effectively tell their story. A good story behind your startup will later help you acquire long-term customers, recruit the top talent, build brands that endure and make you rich and famous.