In a recent LinkedIn post, Florence Divet ☀️ addresses a common misconception among business leaders: that a lack of impactful communication stems from a storytelling problem. Instead, Florence Divet ☀️ argues that the core issue is often a “structure problem.” This leads leaders, when under pressure, to overload their messages with excessive context and data, a tactic Florence Divet ☀️ humorously notes results in audiences remembering “only the biscuits.”
Florence Divet ☀️ then outlines six essential storytelling frameworks that leaders can leverage to enhance their communication effectiveness. These frameworks, according to Florence Divet ☀️, serve distinct purposes and can be strategically deployed to cut through noise, inspire belief, build credibility, drive action, and foster emotional connection.
The Power of Structured Narrative
Florence Divet ☀️ emphasizes that effective leadership communication isn’t about innate storytelling talent but about employing the right structural tools. The first framework presented is the ABT (And. But. Therefore.) structure, which Florence Divet ☀️ describes as ideal for delivering a single, sharp message quickly.
“And = what we all know. But = the tension nobody’s saying out loud. Therefore = the move we now need to make.”
As Florence Divet ☀️ points out, this structure is perfect for high-pressure situations like board updates or all-hands meetings where clarity is paramount. The post states, “If you’t explain your message in ABT, you don’t have one yet,” highlighting its utility in refining a core message.
Frameworks for Impact and Inspiration
Beyond the concise ABT model, Florence Divet ☀️ introduces the 3-Act Structure (Act 1: where we are; Act 2: what’s in the way; Act 3: what’s changes now) for messages requiring a full narrative arc, such as keynotes or strategy rollouts. Florence Divet ☀️ cautions that skipping the tension in Act 2 leads to a loss of audience attention.
To inspire belief, the Golden Circle (Why. How. What.) is recommended, particularly for articulating purpose and vision. Florence Divet ☀️ warns, however, “Beware: a why without proof is just a slogan.” This underscores the need for authenticity and substantiation in leadership messaging.
“Most exec talks skip the tension. But no tension means no attention.”
For building credibility, the STARR (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Reflection) model is presented as a method for demonstrating concrete achievements, especially valuable in investor updates or board meetings. Florence Divet ☀️ notes, “This is where trust is earned.”
Driving Action and Transformation
Florence Divet ☀️ also details Monroe’s Motivated Sequence (Attention, Need, Satisfaction, Visualisation, Action), which is designed to drive action, making it suitable for change initiatives and sales efforts. The post suggests that “Visualised outcomes move people.” Finally, the Hero’s Journey framework is recommended for transformation stories, with a crucial caveat:
“Important bit: in business, the leader usually should not be the hero. The customer, team, or employee is the hero. You are the guide.”
Florence Divet ☀️ concludes by illustrating how these frameworks can be combined within a single speech to achieve clarity, meaning, trust, attention, and action. By strategically integrating structures like ABT for the opening, Golden Circle for meaning, 3-Act for flow, STARR for proof, Hero’s Journey for emotion, and Monroe’s Motivated Sequence for closure, leaders can ensure their messages resonate and drive tangible results, distinguishing impactful speeches from those that merely entertain.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Florence Divet ☀️ on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 7, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →