HCI Webinar Recap: Using Stories to Build Support for CSR Initiatives, with Tamika Bickham

In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Tamika Bickham about using stories to build support for CSR initiatives. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!

Watch the episode here:

Quick Recap

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the importance of storytelling in promoting corporate social responsibility initiatives and social impact, emphasizing the need for authenticity and genuine effort. They also highlighted the significance of understanding the audience and the desired action, and the importance of personalizing and customizing stories for emotional connection. The conversation concluded with plans for future collaboration and the release of the edited conversation on March 4th.

Storytelling for Social Impact Discussion

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the power of storytelling in promoting Csr initiatives and social impact. Tamika, an award-winning broadcast journalist and creative director, shared her background in journalism and her transition to a nonfiction video production studio specializing in crafting engaging content for Csr and Esg leaders. She emphasized the importance of storytelling in inspiring and mobilizing communities to take action. Jonathan, a business professor, expressed his interest in the topic and his desire to better understand how businesses can make a positive impact. The conversation laid the groundwork for further exploration of the role of storytelling in promoting social good.

Promoting Positivity Amidst Negative News

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the current focus on negative news and the need for more positive stories. Jonathan highlighted the challenge of algorithms being built for negativity and the need to work harder to promote positive content. Tamika agreed, noting the importance of positioning difficult issues in a way that encourages healthy debate and solutions. Both agreed that people are yearning for positive stories and that businesses could be highlighted for their good deeds. They concluded that the current environment is heavy with geopolitical, social, and economic issues, but there are still opportunities to promote positivity.

Authenticity in Corporate Social Responsibility

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the importance of authenticity in corporate social responsibility initiatives. Tamika emphasized the need to understand the audience and the desired action, and to identify the right voices to communicate the story. She also highlighted the significance of the human element and the aspirational perspective in storytelling. Jonathan agreed with these points and suggested that everyone understands the need for aspirational goals and the fact that perfection is not always achievable.

Authenticity and Passion in Achieving Goals

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the importance of authenticity and genuine effort in achieving aspirational goals. Jonathan shared an example from his past where an event's keynote speaker failed to deliver a compelling story, resulting in embarrassment for both the speaker and the event organizers. He emphasized that authenticity and passion are key factors in making a positive impact, rather than just relying on a name or title. The conversation highlighted the need for organizations to strive for genuine efforts and not just give lip service to their goals.

The Power of Personal Storytelling

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the importance of storytelling in various contexts, such as documentaries, interviews, news spots, and keynote speeches. They emphasized that a person's title or fame does not necessarily guarantee a compelling story. Tamika shared her experience with a mission-driven bank, highlighting the significance of understanding the personal connections and experiences of the individuals involved. She noted that these connections can make a story more authentic and impactful. Both agreed on the importance of delving deeper into the stories to uncover their true value.

Authenticity and Storytelling in Support Building

Jonathan and Tamika discussed the importance of authenticity and storytelling in building support for initiatives within organizations. Tamika emphasized the need to understand the 'why' behind an initiative and the desired action from the audience. She suggested customizing stories to resonate with different audiences and using data to provide context. Jonathan agreed, highlighting the importance of personalizing and customizing stories for emotional connection. They concluded that a data-driven approach with a compelling story would be powerful in garnering support from various stakeholders.

Listen to the webinar here: