In Other Words…
Webster defines a metaphor as “a figure of speech in which one word or phrase is substituted for another; seemingly unrelated, which is symbolic or representative of the point to be made”. As a marketer, a trainer, as a coach, as a storyteller, I find that the use of metaphors is a powerful communication tool that can be used to more effectively reach a specific audience in terms that they can best relate to rather than my terms that I relate to. This form of audience-driven communication also indicates an understanding of “their” situation.
Let me give you an example:
To many people, the thought of starting a business is overwhelming and intimidating. They often have their minds made up before I even open my mouth. It represents change and the unknown.- two things that we humans just aren’t built to embrace. Reading my audience, I will commonly relate running a business to running a household or a sports team.
I coached hockey for eight years and what I learned from my business I brought to the rink and what I learned at the rink, I brought to the office. The comparative symbolism is fascinating - players to employees, parents to investors, the need to generate revenue along with communication skills, motivation skills, negotiation skills, time management, commitment and the list goes on and both business and sport require practice, resources, relationships to become successful.

Suddenly, as I walk people down this road, they get it… and their reluctance evaporates! And they discover it for themselves through the metaphors I provide. Running a successful sports team is indeed like running a business. Successfully managing a household requires the same transferable skills and attitude that makes a business work!
Communication on a variety of levels largely determines the level of success that you achieve and metaphors can be your best friend as an effective communicator.
To take a closer look at communication skills and resources, check out my articles: “Selling Yourself” and “Speaking of Public Speaking” both found here on my website… Larry