If you want more funding or support for your science, tech or research, one of the most important things you can do is capture great case studies.
But it’s too easy to get to the end of the year, a grant application deadline or a funding pitch and realise you’ve forgotten to capture any good stories.
So, here’s some easy ways to get great case studies you can pull out when you need them most.
Capitalise on existing events for case studies
Look ahead in your calendar and find events where people with great stories are already going to be. Got a conference coming up? Ask a couple of people for 20 minutes to share their stories during the lunch or tea breaks. Is someone important flying in for a meeting? Schedule 30 minutes before or after the meeting to capture their story.
You’ve got to make the most of every opportunity you have with people face-to-face.
Create opportunities for case studies all year around
Embed capturing case studies and stories into your routine so you have a collection of stories ready to go. Have a monthly staff meeting? Ask a different staff member, client, student or stakeholder to share their work with your team each month and capture it. Commit to capturing at least one good story a month.
You’ll thank yourself at the end of the year when you’ve captured even just a couple of great stories you can use in your annual report.
Go simple
In a time poor environment – something is better than nothing. Send an email with 3 simple questions to a potential case study. If their responses are great – you can always follow up later to get photos or film video with them.
Template a couple of easy questions you can copy and paste into an email for busy people.
Practice and normalise sharing case studies
Get your phone out and practice sharing stories and insights with your colleagues. The more you practice and normalise sharing great stories – the better your case studies and content will be when you invest in professional photography or videography.
Lead by example and show your colleagues that sharing your story in a conversational and relaxed way can be enjoyable. Even if you don’t use the video – the practice is worth it.
Create comfort and let people shine
Invite a friend, family member or colleague who’s not from the field and get them to ask questions. Create a comfort zone where people can forget the microphone or camera is there. Get them to show off and demonstrate. Great case studies come from comfort, curiosity and passion – let people shine from their comfort zone.
Ascent Media has over two decades experience helping tell the stories of great people in tech, science, research and more. We can help you create case studies through video, photography, podcasts and more.
Call us on 03 9408 6660 or get a quote from us here.
