Bengaluru: In a digital-first, data-heavy business world, stories remain a leader’s most powerful tool. According to Gartner Insights, leaders who use data storytelling see a 20% boost in leadership impact highlighting its value in building influence, clarity, and connection. Recognising this shift in leadership effectiveness, the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta), one of the leading B-schools in India, ranked 5th by NIRF 2024 has launched a high-impact 20-week online programme titled Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence, in collaboration with Emeritus. The programme is designed to help leaders build executive presence, strengthen communication, and influence across business and public contexts.
This programme by IIM Calcutta bridges the gap between understanding the value of storytelling and using it effectively in professional scenarios. It blends narrative theory with practical communication tools to help leaders craft audience-first, outcome-driven messages. From public speaking to personal branding and inclusive storytelling, participants will gain the ability to lead with clarity and inspire action.
Targeted at mid-to-senior level professionals, this programme is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their executive presence, refine their leadership communication, and elevate their personal brand. It caters to business leaders aiming to craft concise, impactful messages, as well as professionals looking to strengthen storytelling in digital spaces. The programme also benefits those in roles that demand persuasive communication such as marketing, consulting, public speaking, HR, DEI, and strategic functions by equipping them with the tools to influence, inspire, and connect more effectively across diverse audiences.
Speaking on the programme, Prof. Nandita Roy, Assistant Professor, Business Ethics & Communication Group, IIM Calcutta, said, “Storytelling can shape strategy, build inclusive cultures, and create trust across diverse stakeholder groups. At IIM Calcutta, this programme is designed to help leaders simplify complexity and build powerful narratives that connect, inspire, and move people to action.”
Avnish Singhal, Executive Vice President, Head India & APAC at Emeritus, added, “Effective communication is no longer optional, it’s essential. Through this collaboration with IIM Calcutta, we’re equipping professionals with structured storytelling skills that will set them apart as transformational leaders in today’s evolving landscape.”