Have you ever noticed how dramatic movies tend to start with lots of backstory behind the characters?
Think about Apollo 13, for example. The first part of the movie is focused on their family life, children, etc.
Why do they bother going into all that backstory? What does it have to do with the main plot?
They do it so you are emotionally invested in the characters. It gives them meaning and you can empathize with them a lot more.
I’ve been thinking lately about how best to use backstory in marketing. As a professional, I think it’s important to share some of your personal life inside of your professional identity.
Otherwise, you’re kind of like an interchangeable extra in the film. Nobody cares what happens to you.
Like the thousands leading the charge in Braveheart, we only really care about the characters we know.
If you want people to care, share some of your backstory.