From listening to leading: why stories matter in leadership

One of the things that really stuck with me during the Housing LIN Future Leaders Programme was how powerful it can be to simply hear someone else’s story. Whether it was a guest speaker sharing their journey or someone in our cohort talking about a challenge they’d faced, these stories had a way of making leadership feel more human and relatable. It got me thinking—maybe storytelling isn’t just something we do over coffee breaks, but actually a skill that can make us better leaders.

The power of storytelling in leadership

Leadership is often associated with strategy, decision-making, and vision. But one of the most underrated and powerful tools a leader can use is storytelling. During the programme, listening to various guest speakers, I began to appreciate how storytelling can be a valuable skill for inspiring, guiding, and uniting teams. Leadership isn’t just about giving directions; it’s about inspiring action and creating meaning. Through storytelling, leaders can not only communicate their vision but also motivate and engage their teams on a deeper, emotional level.

Why storytelling matters in leadership

Great leaders don’t just give instructions; they create meaning. Stories help translate abstract goals into tangible, relatable experiences. When leaders tell compelling stories, they foster a shared sense of purpose, making complex ideas more accessible and memorable. Rather than simply outlining objectives or tasks, storytelling can help a leader demonstrate the 'why' behind actions, creating a connection to the bigger picture.

Storytelling can be a great way to help teams channel their energy. When there’s a challenge ahead, jumping straight into a to-do list isn’t always the best approach. Sometimes, telling a story about how something similar played out can do a lot more—it makes the task feel achievable. A good story can turn a daunting project into something you actually want to get stuck into, helping everyone feel more focused and up for the challenge. Ultimately, leadership isn’t just about managing people – it’s about inspiring them.

Why you should consider the Future Leaders Programme

If you’re looking to grow your leadership skills, I’d strongly encourage you to consider joining the next Housing LIN Future Leaders cohort, which starts recruiting today, 14th May 2025. It’s a great opportunity to connect with others working through similar challenges, share ideas, and pick up practical tools that you can use straight away. I’ve found it a valuable experience, and it’s helped me feel more confident about the kind of leader I want to become.