ABSTRACT
The two women parted to communicate their concerns and hopes to others by utilizing storytelling as a strategic method to influence decision-making. While they intended for particular stories to emerge, it is reasonable to assume that other stories were evoked during the exchange. Networking is an uncomplicated concept and is basic to human behavior: one seeks benefits for self and/or others by discovering and communicating with those who can provide enlightenment and resources. Networking in its most basic form can be observed in idionarrating: self communicates with self to obtain information as to the nature of the story in progress. When stories are being told to others, the teller and listener are networking; their relationships are negotiated constantly as the storytelling event progresses, and benefits accrue to both parties. In an intra-organizational setting, individuals often network with other individuals using narratives as a strategy to influence, and groups network with other groups, negotiating for the most advantageous position through storytelling.
