See a photo of Evelyn, her bio, and Part 1 of this Q&A.

Q&A with Evelyn Clark, Question 2:

Q: How did you initially become involved with story/storytelling/narrative? What attracted you to this field? What do you love about it?

A: I’ve enjoyed writing stories most of my life, especially since my father read one of my 8th-grade class assignments and suggested that I consider a career as a news writer. I was immediately captivated by images of reporters racing from one event to another and dashing off front-page stories. I gladly followed a straight line from high-school newspaper editor to a communications degree and a stint as broadcast editor for the Associated Press. I later moved to the other side of the desk, pitching corporate stories to the media, preparing clients for interviews and earning accreditation as a public relations counselor. Over the years I loved it all — and then I “hit the wall.”

I felt burned out and wasn’t sure what to do next. A top-flight business consultant friend offered to help me figure out how to reframe my work. After a series of conversations about my desire to help business people gain a deeper understanding of communication strategy, particularly as it related to marketing communications, my consultant friend suggested the title, “The Corporate Storyteller.” Just as my father’s suggestion had resonated immediately, this concept appealed to me instantly, and I developed a trademarked workshop entitled “Corporate Storytelling: Discovering Fire for the Second Time.”

The first session was presented in 1993, and I enjoy delivering it as much today as I did the first time. Each audience is different, the interaction is fun, and the participants always are excited about their discoveries. It’s very energizing and rewarding work when you see people light up and make significant breakthroughs.