My Journey with "Storytelling with Data" and Meeting Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

It all started with a simple suggestion from my mentor in my previous company. "Read Storytelling with Data by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic," he said. Little did I know, those words would set off a chain reaction of inspiration and opportunity.

From the moment I delved into its pages, I was hooked. In just two weeks, I absorbed its practical insights and tips. I was instantly able to apply my newfound wisdom to my projects. The impact was tangible; my mentor was able to instantly notice the difference in my work. The impact didn't stop there. As fate would have it, my newfound passion for storytelling with data became the unexpected key to unlocking a door to my future at JLL. During the interview process, I found myself connecting with my interviewer on a level beyond the standard Q&A. We bonded over our shared admiration for Cole's work, and I learnt that the entire Storytelling with Data team had visited JLL in the past filled me with excitement for the potential exposure and growth opportunities at the company. Needless to say, the interview went well, and I landed the job.

Fast forward 8 months from then, I got the opportunity to meet Cole and the full Storytelling with Data team two days in a row. They were speaking at the London Tableau User Group (TUG) event in the Salesforce Tower and were also joining us for breakfast at JLL the following day.

I was SO thrilled to meet them!

Their genuine warmth and infectious enthusiasm mirrored the essence of their teachings: to engage, inspire, and connect through storytelling. And to top it off, I had the privilege of being among the first audience to hear about Cole's upcoming book, "Daphne Draws Data," aimed at empowering children with the language of data. Hearing about it firsthand from Cole herself made the experience even more special.

The next morning, the entire Storytelling with Data team visited JLL, and I had the chance to chat with them individually. They're all really nice people! Cole's husband, Randy (host of SWD podcast), was especially delightful, and he even shared the sweet story of how he and Cole met.

The highlight was getting my book signed by Cole with her special pen and getting a picture clicked with her. The moment I would always treasure. 😊

Key highlights and takeaways from the two days:

1. Key Impressions: One key lesson learned during the two days was the importance of making a strong first impression when introducing ourselves. Whether it's a quick one-liner or a brief one-minute introduction, it's crucial to consider how we present ourselves and ensure that it reflects our personality and story. I had the opportunity to discuss this with Randy, and his insights were incredibly helpful. It's something that's often overlooked, but taking the time to craft an impactful introduction can make a significant difference, especially in a room full of people.
2. Focus on the story: Another key takeaway was the importance of focusing on the story when creating data visualizations. With time constraints in mind, it's essential to remember that effective data visualization isn't about complexity but clarity. The goal isn't to impress with intricate visuals, but rather to convey a clear and impactful message that can help our stakeholders take an informed data driven decision.
3. Importance of Iconic Memory: Iconic memory is like a quick snapshot your brain takes when you see something. It's super fast but doesn't last long. Understanding iconic memory helps us make visuals that grab people's attention right away because that first glance is really important. It's like making a good first impression – it sets the tone for how people remember and understand what they see. So, by knowing about iconic memory, we can make sure our pictures and graphs catch people's eyes and stick in their minds.
4. Humaize the Data: The presenter's story is as crucial as the data itself because it adds context, meaning, and relevance to the numbers and visuals being presented. While data can provide valuable insights, it is the story behind the data that helps audiences understand why it matters and how it relates to their lives or the broader context.
5. Do not manipulate data: It's crucial to refrain from altering data visuals, even if they don't support the narrative you wish to convey. Misleading your audience through data manipulation undermines trust and integrity. Honesty in presenting data is essential to ensure transparency and credibility.

Reflecting on this journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the simple suggestion from my mentor that set everything in motion. "Storytelling with Data" became more than just a book; it was a catalyst for personal and professional growth, leading me to unexpected opportunities and unforgettable encounters. Meeting Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic and the Storytelling with Data team was a highlight, offering insights and inspiration that will continue to shape my approach to data storytelling. As I move forward, I'm reminded of the importance of authenticity, integrity, and human connection in sharing meaningful narratives with others. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling to drive positive change.