Rise & Shine: Storytelling That Gets You Hired - Build Your Story Stash
The Day My Perspective on Work Changed Forever
It was September 13, 2016. Just another day at work, sitting under the bright lights in our open-concept office. We didn’t have cubicles, just oversized dog-bone-shaped desks. Mine was right outside my boss's office, surrounded by five coworkers. I was pulling website performance reports like any other morning—until my phone rang.
It was my mom.
At first, I hesitated. Should I answer? I was surrounded by people, and I figured I could call her back at lunch. But something told me to pick up.
Her voice was panicked. I could hear the strain immediately. “Your dad is having a heart attack.”
Time. Stopped.
Everything after that was a blur. I remember my boss driving me across town to meet my brother and mom, who was racing to the hospital about 30-minutes north of where we were. I remember seeing the helicopter carrying my dad fly over our truck on the highway. I thought I might puke. My hands shook. My heart completely dropped. Will I even get the chance to tell dad “I Love You” one more time?
And I remember walking into the hospital and being overwhelmed by the number of people who had already shown up to support us, support HIM. People who loved my dad. People he had impacted without ever seeking recognition.
That day changed everything for me. Work stress, corporate pressure, the ladder I was endlessly climbing—it all shifted. It was like the universe was shifting my priorities for me!
Luckily that day, our story didn’t end like some of our friends would later in life. We got a second chance with him to build more memories. To take a Friday off work to go golfing with him. To say “I Love You” again and again.
Because life is short. And the impact we have on others matters so much more than the next meeting or metrics report.
Dad and I enjoying a round of golf on a BEAUTIFUL day! ☀️☀️☀️
So What Does This Have to Do With Storytelling?
Everything.
Because that story I just shared? You’ll remember it. Not because I listed accomplishments or job titles. But because I made you feel something.
That’s the power of storytelling.
And when you’re in a job search or interview? That’s exactly what makes you memorable.
When you can turn your experience into clear, compelling, and impactful stories—you go from being another name in the pile to someone they can see on their team.
That’s why this week, we’re diving into:
🖊️ How to Build Your Story Stash
Your Story Stash is your personal collection of stories that show your strengths, impact, and growth. They're ready to pull out in interviews, networking convos, and even performance reviews.
Where to Start:
Ask yourself:
When did I overcome a challenge?
When did I solve a problem in a creative way?
When did I make a measurable impact?
What’s a moment I’m most proud of professionally?
Then write down the answers.
📃 Choose Your Format: STAR or the Impact Sandwich
Most people know STAR: Situation – Task – Action – Result Great for keeping things structured and easy to follow.
But if you want to stand out even more, try the Impact Sandwich (aka RVI Method):
1. Result (Grab Their Attention)
"We boosted retention by 37% in six months."
2. Value/How You Did It
"I noticed a gap in onboarding, redesigned the process, and rolled out training across three departments."
3. Impact (Close with Power)
"That new process became the company-wide standard and improved customer satisfaction scores by 25%."
Short. Memorable. Impactful.
🌟 Pro Tips:
Always tailor your story to the role or situation.
Keep your story under 90 seconds when spoken.
Focus on what they’ll care about: impact, growth, and value.
And most importantly, practice your stories until they feel natural and confident. This will leave your audience, whether in a 1:1 conversation or group interview, wanting more!!
They will not just hear your story, but they will FEEL your energy and value!
🚀 Ready to Build Your Story Stash?
This week’s Rise & Shine challenge: Pick ONE story and write it out using either the STAR or Impact Sandwich method.
Then reply back and share it with me! I’d love to cheer you on and give feedback.
Need help building your story stash or using it in your job search? Let’s work together!
Contact me to set up a FREE 30 minute initial consultation!
Until next time… keep rising, keep shining.
💛 Alyssa
Founder, Rise Up Career Coaching
Helping you find joy and purpose in your professional journey.
You can find all past newsletters here:https://www.riseupcareercoach.com/newsletter
