A Vision for Our Story
March 5, 2020
Never underestimate the power of a good story.
Stories can change our mood, outlook and perceptions. The right story at the right time can have a dramatic impact. Stories have power because they make sense of difficult topics and connect us with others. Weaving together experiences into a narrative explains who we are and our place in the world. Without the story, we are left with only unrelated moments. With each retelling, the narrative feels more and more personal.
American radio broadcaster Paul Harvey gained fame with his famous The Rest of the Story segments. He became known for his catch phrases at the beginning of his programs, such as “Hello Americans, this is Paul Harvey. Stand by for NEWS!” He always ended, “Paul Harvey ... Good day.”
In 1978, Harvey gave the speech, “So God Made a Farmer,” at the 1978 Future Farmers of America convention. In a series of compelling paragraphs, the speech described the unique and varied characteristics of a farmer. Harvey ended each section with the recurring refrain, “So God made a farmer.” This wonderful tribute was recently used to great effect in a Super Bowl ad for Ram Trucks—exposing a whole new generation to Paul Harvey’s homespun wisdom.
Looking more closely at Harvey’s tribute, the word farmer could easily be replaced by title agent, escrow officer or attorney. Most of us know the practice of insuring title started after the 1868 Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling in the case Watson v. Muirhead. The judgment, and subsequent loss to the purchaser, then prompted a group of Philadelphia conveyancers to establish a way to protect the innocent buyers of real property.
The industry story is also your story. Think of all the ways you protect your customers. Whether it’s clearing up title issues, delivering smooth closings or protecting your clients’ information and money, there are countless stories to share about the important role you play in each home purchase. From helping first-time buyers get the keys to their starter home to donating time and money to local charities, you are a vital piece of your community.
No story is told the same way twice. Each storyteller must find his or her own voice. Let’s make sure we share our vision of the industry in 2020. Let’s tell our story.
Jeremy Yohe is ALTA's vice president of communications. He can be reached at [email protected].
Contact ALTA at 202-296-3671 or [email protected].