Is Getting Certified by StoryBrand to Be a Marketing Guide Worth It?
If you’re into marketing and love telling stories, you may have thought about becoming a StoryBrand Certified Guide. Donald Miller’s StoryBrand framework is a big deal in marketing because it helps businesses create clear, simple messages that connect with customers. But the big question is: Is it worth it to get certified by StoryBrand to become a marketing coach or guide? Let’s look at the benefits, costs, and everything else you should know before deciding if becoming a StoryBrand Certified Guide is the right choice for you.
1. What Does It Mean to Get StoryBrand Certified?
StoryBrand certification means you’re officially trained in the StoryBrand framework. StoryBrand was created by Donald Miller to help companies make their marketing simple and effective. The framework uses a storytelling formula where the customer is the “hero” of the story, and the business is the “guide” that helps them. The guide (which could be you, as a certified StoryBrand Guide) gives the hero (the customer) a plan to solve their problem and succeed.
Becoming a certified guide means you’ll learn all about this method, get to work with the StoryBrand team, and be able to use the StoryBrand name to show clients that you’re trained in this approach.
2. Why Do People Want to Become StoryBrand Certified?
There are a lot of reasons why people want to get certified by StoryBrand, especially if they’re already in marketing or want to become marketing consultants. Here are a few of the top reasons people choose to become StoryBrand Certified Guides:
a. Expert Training and Hands-On Experience
StoryBrand certification isn’t just a quick course. It’s a deep dive into storytelling and marketing, with expert training and real-life practice. You’ll get live training sessions, hands-on experience with the framework, and feedback from top StoryBrand coaches. This way, you’re prepared to use StoryBrand ideas in real-world situations as soon as you’re done.
b. Access to a Powerful Network and Resources
Once you’re certified, you’ll be part of a community of other StoryBrand guides and marketing experts. This network is a great place to learn, share ideas, and build connections. StoryBrand also gives certified guides special tools and templates that make working with clients easier and more professional.
c. Better Job Opportunities and More Credibility
StoryBrand has become very popular, and businesses across different industries want help from StoryBrand guides. Being certified gives you credibility, showing clients you know the StoryBrand method and how to make their message clear and effective. This can open doors to better job opportunities and allow you to charge more for your services.
d. Proven Success with StoryBrand
StoryBrand has a strong reputation for getting real results. Many certified guides say their clients see big improvements in customer engagement, sales, and brand loyalty after using the StoryBrand framework. This can help you keep clients happy, get referrals, and build a solid reputation as a StoryBrand guide.
3. Costs and Commitment of Becoming a StoryBrand Guide
While there are a lot of benefits, getting certified by StoryBrand also comes with costs and time commitments.
a. Financial Investment
StoryBrand certification is an investment ($10,000 - $12,000), and like most professional programs, it isn’t cheap. But many certified guides say they make up the cost quickly because clients are willing to pay more for StoryBrand services.
b. Time and Effort Required
Becoming certified isn’t just about watching a few videos. It takes time to complete the training, go through practical assignments, and stay up-to-date with the framework. You’ll need to be ready to put in the time and effort to make the most of your certification.
c. Competition and Standing Out
StoryBrand has become so popular that more people are getting certified, which means you’ll have competition. To stand out, you might want to add other skills, like social media marketing or SEO, to offer clients a well-rounded service.
4. What It’s Like to Be a StoryBrand Certified Guide
Once you’re certified, what can you expect? Here are some things that might come up:
a. Working with Clients in Different Industries
The StoryBrand framework can be used by businesses in all sorts of fields, from tech and retail to nonprofits. As a certified guide, you’ll likely work with clients from many backgrounds. This variety can be exciting, and you’ll get to see how StoryBrand applies to different industries and goals.
b. Continuous Learning and Adapting
Even after certification, you’ll still need to keep learning. Marketing trends change quickly, and as a StoryBrand guide, it helps to stay updated on new strategies and tools. This makes you even more valuable to clients and helps keep your work fresh.
c. Client Results Depend on You
StoryBrand gives you a strong foundation, but your clients’ success depends on how well you can put it into action. You’ll need creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills to make sure each client’s message is clear and effective.
5. Is StoryBrand Certification Worth It?
So, is StoryBrand certification worth the time and money? Here are some situations where it might be a great fit:
If You’re a Marketing Consultant or Coach: StoryBrand certification makes you stand out in a crowded market and helps you attract clients who are already interested in this popular framework.
If You’re Passionate About Helping Clients Succeed: If you love seeing clients grow and get real results, StoryBrand could be the perfect tool for your business.
If You Want to Be Part of a Community: The StoryBrand network is filled with experts who are eager to connect, share advice, and help each other succeed. If community and networking are important to you, certification offers that.
If You’re Looking for a Flexible Framework: StoryBrand’s method is flexible, so you can use it with clients in nearly any industry. If you like having a structured approach that’s still adaptable, StoryBrand could be a good fit.
However, if you’re just looking for a quick skill to add to your resume, StoryBrand certification might not be for you. It requires dedication and is more than just another marketing skill. But for those who are committed, it can lead to significant rewards.
6. How Applied Storytelling Can Help You Decide
At Applied Storytelling, we know that becoming a StoryBrand Certified Guide is a big decision. Our team is here to answer any questions you have and help you figure out if certification is the right choice. If you want to learn more about how this certification could help your career, or if you’re just curious about the process, reach out! We’re here to help you explore your options and see if StoryBrand certification aligns with your goals.
