Why writing still matters
Let’s be real, writing isn’t exactly the most hyped-up skill these days. With AI churning out essays and TikTok dominating our attention spans, the art of storytelling is slowly fading into the background. But here’s the thing: strong writing and storytelling skills are more important than ever. Whether you’re dreaming of writing a novel, creating screenplays, running a killer social media page, or leading a department of employees, storytelling is at the heart of it all.
As someone who’s spent over 15 years as a lecturer, works as a motivational speaker, storytelling coach, and guest speaker at universities and colleges, I’ve seen first-hand how writing can completely change a student’s future. It’s not just about writing essays. It’s about learning how to communicate, persuade, and engage an audience. And in today’s world, those who can tell a good story, whether in writing or speech, stand out from the crowd.
Why storytelling skills matter more than ever
Think about the last ad that made you stop scrolling. Or that social media post that went viral. Or even the last film or TV show that stuck with you. They all have one thing in common; great storytelling.
Career prospects skyrocket: Whether you’re in business, tech, media, or marketing, strong writing skills open doors. Companies want people who can tell a story, whether it’s through branding, blogs, or product descriptions.
Confidence & self-expression: Writing helps students find their voice. When you can express your thoughts clearly, you naturally feel more confident in everything–from public speaking to job interviews.
Creativity & problem-solving: Writing is about structuring ideas, thinking critically, and creating solutions. These skills translate to every single industry.
It’s the key to engaging an audience: Whether you’re an influencer, a business owner, or just someone who wants to make an impact, knowing how to craft a compelling story makes all the difference.
So, how do we keep storytelling alive?
The problem is, with so much focus on quick, digital content, students aren’t always encouraged to develop these skills. So, how do we change that?
Not every student wants to write essays, but what about blog posts, scripts, or social media content? Let’s show them that storytelling isn’t just about school assignments—it’s something they can use in real life. Showing real-world applications is important. Want to be a YouTuber? An entrepreneur? A game developer? Storytelling is at the core of all of these careers. Hearing from authors, screenwriters, content creators, and marketing experts can show students just how valuable writing and storytelling really are. The bottom line? Writing isn’t just about grammar and punctuation. It’s about telling stories that connect, inspire, and persuade. And if we don’t encourage students to develop this skill, we’re holding them back from some pretty incredible opportunities.
Whether it’s writing a novel, crafting a screenplay, or creating engaging social media content, strong storytelling skills are essential for standing out in today’s world. As a motivational speaker based in Yorkshire, I’ve seen firsthand how storytelling transforms confidence, creativity, and career prospects. If you're an educator looking for an inspiring guest speaker for universities, author talks, or college speaker workshops, let’s work together to bring storytelling back into the spotlight.
Get in touch today to inspire the next generation of storytellers!
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