YOU don’t get a second chance to make a great first impression.

These are not my words but words I used many moons ago as the tag line for my copywriting company. That great first impression is more important now than ever before.

Did you know that before you go to bed tonight you will have seen more than 6,000 marketing messages, some subliminal and some right in front of your face?

How do successful companies ensure that their message stands out more than others, and that you remember them?

More importantly, how do you get noticed in the crowded modern marketplace?

The best way to get noticed and be listened to is to use storytelling in your marketing.

Those of you who like to watch Ted.com will be aware that those speakers who use storytelling to get a message across are compelling and far more believable.

Ted.com can often leave you feeling in awe of the stories and speakers that you hear. And these Ted.com clips are the ones which get liked, shared and spoken about.

So how do you make sure your storytelling is effective and easy to write or say?

Here are five ways to help you with your storytelling marketing strategy: 

* Factual stories - do your research on whatever it is you wish to explain and put over your message through factual stories.

Statistics, famous brands and ‘been there, done that’ examples are perfect for this.

* Trending news stories - just as when you blog, telling a story that sits in line with something relevant on the news will help people engage. How has this piece of news affected you, someone you know or a celebrity? Keep it humorous where possible and you will relax your audience.

* Case studies - stories about your clients, and their successes, will encourage people to do business with you, as they will have seen how you have already made a difference.

* Classic stories or quotes - so many stories have already been told and shared. If you have a gem of a story which is suitable, use it. Remember to give credit where credit is due.

* Your personal story - want to engage with your audience on a deeper level?

Telling your stories will help you to connect Although it’s sometimes hard to be vulnerable, your stories will build trust from strangers and strengthen existing connections.

So next time you want to get a message across, whether you are speaking, writing or even making a video, incorporate a story or two and watch people engage with you and your brand.