All news at TU Wien

The Power of Storytelling in Business: Turning Complexity into Connection

Imagine a seasoned technician standing before a board of executives, about to present an intricate technical report on system upgrades. He has spent months refining complex engineering solutions, but now he faces a challenge far greater than any technical issue—how does he make his expertise understandable and engaging for decision-makers with little technical background?

Teacher presents data

Instead of drowning his audience in data-heavy slides, he starts with a simple, relatable story: "Imagine our company as a car. Over time, wear and tear slows it down. Some components aren’t functioning optimally, causing inefficiencies. Our system upgrades are like a high-performance tune-up—revamping outdated parts, optimizing the engine, and ensuring the car runs smoothly for years to come."

Storytelling has been central to human communication since the earliest civilizations. From ancient cave paintings to oral traditions passed down through generations, stories have always shaped knowledge, culture, and emotions. Business leaders today can learn from history—whether it’s Aristotle’s rhetoric, the narrative techniques of Shakespeare, or the compelling storytelling of modern brands. 

In today’s data-driven world, businesses rely on metrics to make decisions, but raw data can be overwhelming, dry, or easily misinterpreted.  That´s why the 6-day compact program “Data Literacy & AI Essentials” dedicates 1 ½ days to “Storytelling with Data for Executives”. In theory and hands-on modules, the gap between analytics and understanding will be bridged. 

Stories captivate, inspire, and persuade. They help us connect with our audiences and build trust. For executives and emerging leaders – really, for anyone who wants their ideas to be heard and remembered – storytelling isn’t just a “nice-to-have” skill. Knowing how to craft and weave stories into your communication is essential. 

We invited Dr. Elke Framson to share her insights and experience on this topic in an online Expert Talk in September 2025. As a communication coach, university lecturer, and founder of TransAtlantic Coaching & Training, LLC, she works with international professionals to help them become more confident, effective communicators – and storytellers.

“With storytelling, you won’t just capture attention – you’ll leave a lasting impression.” People remember stories more than facts. That’s why Dr. Framson recommends incorporating relatable human experiences into technical presentations, business conversations and sales pitches. In her expert talk she will give real-world examples and hands-on tips on how to hone this powerful tool to create genuine connections.

Dr. Framson’s passion for this topic – and for communication more broadly – is rooted in her own transcontinental story and a life lived between Europe and the U.S. “I've been a student, a university lecturer, a business owner, a parent, a homeowner, and more on both continents. And in between, I've packed up my home several and shipped it across the Atlantic.”

 

What an exciting start of a story!  Do you want to know what happens next? Join the free online expert talk in September.

Online Expert Talk with Dr. Elke Framson

Thursday September 18, 2025, 17:00-18:00 CEST (Vienna Local Time)

delivered on ZOOM in English

register here to receive the ZOOM link