How to use story marketing in service businesses

Deer Designer mascot fighting a dragon on top of a book
Engage your audience with a story about your brand.

Have you ever noticed how in movies, the superheroes usually start off weak and vulnerable? They need someone to guide and teach them how to fight the bad guys. That’s kind of like how your customers are the heroes, and you’re the guide.

As the guide, you’ve been through the journey before, and you know what it takes to succeed. The hero (the customer) looks up to you and trusts your advice because they know it could mean the difference between success and failure.

But sometimes it can be tough to show them just how valuable your knowledge and skills are. That’s where story marketing comes in! By sharing stories of your successes and failures, you can show them how you can help achieve their goals.

What is story marketing?

Story marketing is a way to tell a story about your brand that connects with your target audience emotionally. It’s not just about selling your services; it’s about creating a story that your customers can relate to.

Why is story marketing important for service businesses?

In today’s world, we are bombarded with ads everywhere we go, and traditional ads aren’t as effective as they used to be. That’s why story marketing is so important. It helps you cut through the noise and make a lasting impression.

How can you use story marketing in your design strategy?

Use visuals to tell your story

Visuals are a powerful tool for storytelling. Images and videos can help you communicate your brand’s message in a way that resonates with your audience.

For instance, if you run a landscaping business, you could use “before and after” photos to showcase the transformational power of your services.

Incorporate client testimonials

Client testimonials are a great way to add credibility to your brand’s story. When potential customers see that others have had positive experiences with your services, they’re more likely to trust your brand and want to engage with it.

Highlight your unique selling proposition

What sets your business apart from your competitors? Is it your exceptional customer service, your approach, or your commitment to sustainability? Whatever it is, make sure to highlight your unique selling proposition.

Use social media to amplify your message

Use social media to show off the personality of your brand and get to know your audience better. Consider also that whenever they scroll through social media, they are relaxed and more open to ideas.

For example, you could use Instagram to show the behind-the-scenes work that goes into your services or share stories about how your business has helped improve your customers’ lives.

Use storytelling in your brand messaging

Adding storytelling to your brand messaging can help make your message more compelling and memorable.

Instead of just saying, “We offer landscaping services,” you could say, “We help transform your outdoor space into a beautiful oasis that you can enjoy all year long.” This approach makes your brand more memorable.

Stories are powerful

The use of stories is not just a fad. It has been a proven strategy for pushing people to take action. Take a look at the books you own right now. You can probably remember which one pushed you to start your business.

If a book or a story inspired you to take this path, the same strategy will work for people seeking to change their lives with your service or product.

You can always ask your on-demand design team for ideas on how to incorporate your brand’s story into your design.

Remember, stories are not just words; images play a critical role in sending the message across, which is why it’s important to do it with the right design partner.