Spotlight: How Narratives Drive Governance (Virtual Workshop)

Nothing provides meaning, inspires or tightens bonds, or gets people on the same page like a good story.

The ability to tell your story clearly and concisely isn't just important for audiences, it's essential inside your organization too.

That's why we're thrilled to have Jenny Smith, President of the award-winning Ray Creative Agency (who we also worked with for our campaign "The Art of Going Out"), lead the next workshop in our Narrative Marketing Initiative.

On February 26, Smith will host the virtual workshop "How Narratives Drive Governance." Designed to help boards and teams use narrative as a strategic tool for alignment and long-term success, this session will dive into how narratives and storytelling serve as a governance tool, shaping culture, alignment and legitimacy while clarifying your mission. (Click here to learn more about the workshop "How Narratives Drive Governance.")

Governance is about more than bylaws and policies; it’s about shared understanding, purpose and direction. During the workshop, participants will explore both the explicit and implicit stories that guide behaviour, authority and priorities inside the organization.

While many of us think of narratives as external stories for audiences or funders, this session reminds us of the power of narratives within an organization and aims to help boards and teams get on the same page using shared language, shared meaning and shared purpose.

The stories you tell — about your mission, values, history and priorities — influence everything from how board members make decisions to how staff collaborate and innovate. Participants will examine how a clear and shared narrative can:

• Inspire your board and team by connecting everyday work to a larger purpose

• Clarify mission and values (so everyone understands not only what you do, but why it matters)

• Strengthen legitimacy and long-term direction

Launched in the fall, the year-long Narrative Marketing Initiative helps artists and arts organizations confidently communicate the value and impact of their work. Understanding that marketing can feel intimidating, this initiative recognizes that artists are natural storytellers that can build on narratives as a foundation for communication, connection and growth with the right tools and strategies.

We hope you'll join us for "How Narratives Drive Governance" and stick around to learn more about how storytelling can help empower you and your organization.

Workshop: How Narratives Drive Governance
Date/Time: Thursday, February 26  from 11am–12:30pm NST
Location: Online via Zoom
Price: Free
Registration: Click here to register for the workshop "How Narratives Drive Governance"

Click here to learn more about the Narrative Marketing Initiative.