Taylor Swift has dominated the headlines this past year with a blockbuster world tour, record-breaking album releases, six Grammy nominations and the all-time record for the most number one hits on Billboard’s pop radio chart. Is there anything government communicators can glean from her meteoric success? This session explores the notion that Swift’s remarkable storytelling prowess and unique way with words is a powerful secret sauce for her success – and it can be yours, too. Sure, she has an edge by writing about her long lists of ex-lovers while we must write about zoning regulations and organics recycling, but at the core of her magic is a clever storytelling formula that builds trust, empathy and compassion – outcomes all of us would like from our outreach efforts. Drawing from scientific research that shows storytelling triggers the release of oxytocin in the brain and lends to a bonding experience, we’ll outline how to successfully use storytelling methods to grab people’s attention and make them want to learn more about your message, even when talking about less intriguing topics like sales tax initiatives, sewer health and housing elements. Attendees will leave equipped with the tools needed to infuse their communications with compelling narratives that resonate deeply with their constituents. One might say it’s a tale as old as time with a fresh twist for government audiences. Come for the Taylor trivia and friendship bracelets and leave with a roadmap to better connect with your audiences in ways that never go out of style.