The art of storytelling is uniquely human. Since before the written word, stories were passed through communities and to new generations by word of mouth. Stories allow us a way to connect with each other by distilling down an idea or experience into the most important elements.

Identifying and sharing your story and your journey is the first step to unlocking your unique Advisor Point of View (APOV). APOV is the essential message that you want to communicate to the world.

For those who are financial advisors, stories can be especially powerful. To the public, the financial industry that can seem complicated, esoteric and confusing. Identifying your Signature Story can help you better connect with clients, prospects and colleagues. Stories help us get away from the financial speak and frame our values using more approachable language that anyone can identify with.

As a storyteller, where do you start? Four words: “When I was young…”

These four simple words are relatable and help launch the story of your journey to where you are now. These four words are the beginning of your story, but to keep writing, ask yourself four questions:

1. What is a story from my past, maybe my childhood, that sticks out in my mind?
2. What is one of the most memorable stories from my past?
3. What’s a story from my past where I saw family members handle or mishandle finances?
4. What are the key stories from my past that have molded and shaped my current values?

The answers to these questions might not be readily evident. To do the work of finding your APOV and writing your Signature Story, we should be willing to get a little uncomfortable. It may take a few sessions, coming back to these questions time and again. You might even want to tell these stories out loud to see which ones resonate with your loved ones and trusted friends.

From here, take a look at which story or stories stand out. Is there a story that can be tied to the journey you are currently on as an advisor? That’s your Signature Story.

If you’re still having trouble, don’t worry. If you’ve been in this business for some time, there is a trick to reverse engineer your Signature Story. Go back and take a look at your mission/vision statement or some foundational language you wrote for your website. When you look at those pre-written pieces, do any of your “When I was young” stories connect?
If so, take some time, and perfect your signature story. Write it down if you want—what are the important points, don’t forget the beginning, middle and end. It shouldn’t be long, but it should truly resonate with you and reflect your own journey.

When the timing is right, share your story with colleague, peers and others. A Signature Story creates connection, allows those around you to identify with you and your purpose and is the first step in becoming an Aligned Advisor.