All the World's a Stage! The Influence of Theatre Techniques on HR Leaders' Self-Efficacy and Performance in Corporate Storytellin

Storytelling has become an important communication tool for leaders in the twenty-first century. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of a theatre-arts professional development program to enhance Human Resources leaders' self-efficacy and performance using storytelling as a method of communication. A survey instrument, based on Rubin and Martin's (1994) Interpersonal Communication Competence (ICC) scale, measured study participant's pre-program and post-program perceptions of personal ability in storytelling. Pre-and-post program videos were viewed and coded by two video reviewers who assessed any potential changes in performance. Qualitative data collected at the close of the program from participants and video reviewers and in a follow-up email to study participants added commentary to the quantitative data gathered. The quantitative results suggest statistically significant positive change in participants' self-efficacy and performance in corporate storytelling. The qualitative results indicate that the study participants found the professional development program a valuable learning experience that built their confidence and ability in storytelling.