What is a Foundational Narrative, and how can it help me or my organization?

We all have a story—a sequence of moments that define who we are, where we came from, and where we’re going. Whether you’re an individual or an organization, when it comes to determining where to go next, knowing your story—and how to tell it—comes first.

The product of an in-depth reporting and discovery process, the Foundational Narrative is an unpublished profile of your organization. Part origin story, part manifesto, the Foundational Narrative not only provides an invaluable internal document of where you’ve been, where you are now, and where you hope to be, it contains all the critical elements for your communications, marketing, and recruitment.

How is Epigraph different from other communications and branding consultants?

As a journalist, I trust that you know your story, mission, and vision better than anyone. My job and training are to ask questions that draw that wisdom and insight out of you and your team. Where consultants will tell you what they think you should do, I help you tell me what you know you should do and turn that into a story that gives you the clarity you need to do it.

Who do you work with?

I work with organizations and individuals who have stories to tell and need a partner who can help tell them. Whether you are an emerging brand introducing yourself to the world, a well-known brand with so much more to say, an advocacy organization looking to reaffirm your mission, or an executive who strives to inspire your team and drive discussions among your industry peers, you understand that words and stories have power. I can help you to tap into that power—even if you’ve never thought of yourself as a storyteller or thought leader.

What does “story-driven communications” mean?

“Storytelling” is an overused word in marketing, advertising, and communications—usually as an aspiration for often unengaging content (e.g., marketing, advertising, and communications) to be more engaging. While infusing such content with narrative elements like dramatic tension or irony can certainly make it more enjoyable or memorable, I believe that storytelling is more than merely an additive stylistic seasoning. 

Narrative is fundamental to the way each of us experiences and makes sense of the world we inhabit. It’s how we find meaning and purpose in what we do, regardless of whether or not we endeavor to communicate those things to others. When we understand who we are, where we’ve been, where we’re going, and what matters most to us, the resulting clarity enables us to communicate in an authentically engaging way.

What are the next steps?

The first step is a complimentary consultation to discuss your organization and goals. Please get in touch here!