Storytelling is an age-old custom that has been the center of many celebratory and social events for centuries. A truly great storyteller is blessed with a unique gift, but it’s possible for anyone to improve on their skills as a storyteller and become an even better one. Everyone loves to hear a good story, but the story is only as good as the storyteller.

Every storyteller needs two things – a story and an audience. A good storyteller keeps their audience’s attention by staying on point. Straying from the main point of the story is distracting to the listeners. This should only be done if there is a relevant point to be made that actually enhances the story being told. When a storyteller digresses, they often lose their audience. The best story in the world can be lost if the storyteller is getting off subject too often.

A great storyteller knows how to present a story well. Presentation is more than just recounting a series of events or retelling a story you’ve heard. It involves careful introduction, attention to pertinent details, proper use of body language and tone, and attention to verbiage. As the storyteller, your body language should reflect that you are paying attention to your words and that you are truly speaking to your audience. Don’t try to tackle other tasks while telling a story or your audience will be lost.

Good storytelling also requires some consideration for the audience. Make sure the content of the story is appropriate for the audience and avoid using words that are above the average person’s comprehension abilities, especially with children. Periodically allow brief pauses for the more poignant parts of your story to hit home and allow your audience to absorb the very important details or events.

If you have a true desire to be a great storyteller, you may have to practice speaking to crowds. Start with people you are close to and those with whom you have a great comfort level. Pay attention to how the words come out, whether your tone or inflection is flat or engaging, and whether or not you speak clearly or too quickly.

Storytelling is just one means of communication, but with attention to these basic communication skills, you can become a better storyteller in time. Whether your stories are humorous, scary, or heartfelt sentiments, they are best received when the storyteller is entertaining their audience rather than just trying to convey a random message. With honed skills in storytelling, you’ll most likely always have an audience.