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Batch 5

Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence

Transform Your Leadership With IIM Calcutta Storytelling Certification

  • Master proven storytelling frameworks used by top leaders
  • Gain real-world insights with use cases of global businesses
  • On-campus networking event at IIM Calcutta
  • Lessons on business storytelling for leaders
  • One live session and recorded sessions by IIM Calcutta faculty
  • Doubt-solving sessions with SMEs

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Total Work Experience

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DURATION

20 Weeks

Online

PROGRAMME FEE

Online Processing fee and Applicable Taxes will be charged at checkout

ELIGIBILITY

Minimum Graduate or Diploma Holder (10+2+3) in any discipline.

Upcoming application deadline: Invalid liquid data

What is the Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme?

Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence is a 20-week executive online programme from IIM Calcutta, India’s first Triple Crown accredited management institute (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS).

This leadership communication programme equips business leaders to use structured storytelling including frameworks such as Freytag’s Pyramid and modern AI and GenAI applications—to influence stakeholders and build executive presence. It also helps leaders communicate with clarity by turning ideas and data into compelling narratives for real leadership contexts.

Programme Snapshot

  • Duration: 20 Weeks

  • Mode: Online + Live Masterclasses

  • Programme Fee: INR 1,64,900 + Applicable Taxes

  • Campus Immersion: One day optional campus immersion at IIM Calcutta*

Why Get Certified in Leadership Communication and Storytelling?

20%

boost in leadership impact with data storytelling.
Source:: (Gartner Insights)

22x

Storytelling is remembered 22 times more effectively than facts alone.
Source:: (Stanford University Research)

2.7x

Organisations using storytelling effectively are more likely to be high-performing.
Source:: (McKinsey Reports)

Discover the Faculty Behind IIM Calcutta’s Leadership Learning Experience

Watch Dr. Nandita Roy on shaping ethical leadership and strategic communication in the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme
Image of an academic video thumbnail from IIM Calcutta featuring the title “Shaping Ethical Leadership: Shares Perspectives,” with an illustrated play button and IIM Calcutta branding.

    Programme Highlights of the IIM Calcutta Leadership Communication Programme

    An overview of the learning experience, pedagogy, and programme value of the Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence Programme:
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    Live sessions by industry experts

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    Recorded and one live session by IIM Calcutta faculty

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    Practical learning with real-world case studies

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    Capstone project guided by faculty

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    Advanced modules on GenAI, branding, crisis management, and business storytelling

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    One-day networking event at IIM Calcutta*

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    Enhance influence with cross-cultural storytelling and public speaking

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    Certificate of completion by IIM Calcutta

    Notes:

    • The programme highlights presented above are approximate and subject to change depending on the availability and expertise of the teaching faculty, as well as the programme's desired outcomes.

    • The fee for attending a networking event (without accommodation) on campus is INR 5,000 + GST** per day. Attending the event (with accommodation on twin sharing basis): INR 11000 plus GST**. Attending the event (with accommodation on a single occupancy basis): INR 13000 plus GST**.

    • **Equivalent amount in the applicable currency at the time of payment plus applicable taxes, if any

    The IIM Calcutta Advantage

    #2

    India's best B-school
    SOURCE: Fortune, 2025

    #2

    Best B-School
    SOURCE: BT-MDRA, 2025

    #1

    Triple Accredited Institute in India
    SOURCE: IIM Calcutta

    Real‑World Case Studies Used in the IIM Calcutta Programme

    Note: All product and organisation names mentioned in this material are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Their use does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

    Business Use Cases

    Note:

    All product and organisation names mentioned in this material are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Their use does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them

    Who the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme Is Designed For

    • Mid to senior level managers aiming to enhance communication skills and executive presence for leadership roles.

    • Professionals looking to refine public speaking, build impactful connections, and communicate persuasively.

    • Business leaders wanting to elevate their influence through concise messaging, effective elevator pitches, and improved media communication.

    Programme Modules in the IIM Calcutta Leadership Communication Programme

    A 20‑week curriculum in the IIM Calcutta Leadership Communication Programme structured into modules that build leadership communication capability through strategic, data‑driven, and storytelling‑based learning.

    • Narratives for strategic influence

    • Power of story-driven leadership

    • Narrative transportation

    1. Strategic storytelling frameworks

    2. Freytag’s pyramid for strategic communication

    • Case Study: Super Bowl Storytelling

    1. Transformative Storytelling

    2. Challenge, Choice, Outcome framework

    3. Monomyth framework for leadership storytelling

    Case Study: Lessons from the Superhero Narrative

    1. Building inclusive narratives

    2. Reimagining DEI approaches (Neurodiversity)

    • Case Study: Nike, Dabur

    • Storytelling in the Digital Age: Leveraging LinkedIn, X, and Podcasts for Personal Brand Growth

    1. Cross platform narrative strategy

    2. Understanding digital convergence culture in storytelling

    • Case Study: Hunger Games, Marvel Cinematic Universe

    • Adapting stories to resonate with diverse global audiences

    • Navigating cultural nuances to enhance storytelling impact

    1. Data driven narratives in digital spaces

    2. Exploratory vs Explanatory data storytelling

    • Case Study: Spotify/ Netflix

    • Simple and influential storytelling across meetings on different scales

    • Communicating vision and purpose through powerful narratives

    • Gestalt Principles for Data Persuasion

    • Leveraging digital tools for data narratives

    • Crafting digital narratives with GenAI

    • Leverage AI tools for communication strategies

    • Use Cases: Instagram, Discord, Reddit

    • Framework based communication strategies to bring clarity in complex topics and ideas by leveraging personal / professional experiences

    Note:

    • Modules/ topics are indicative only, and the suggested time and sequence may be dropped/modified/adapted to fit the total programme hours.

    • Masterclasses in this programme will be taken by industry experts.

    Expand Your Professional Network at IIM Calcutta

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme offers participants the opportunity to attend an optional one-day networking event at the IIM Calcutta campus, creating a platform to engage with a community of experienced professionals and accomplished peers. Whether through insightful conversations, collaborative exchanges, or simply experiencing one of India's premier management institutes, the event is designed to enrich your learning journey beyond the virtual classroom.

    Participants may choose to attend the networking event without accommodation for INR 5,000 + GST per day, with twin-sharing accommodation for INR 11,000 + GST, or with single-occupancy accommodation for INR 13,000 + GST. The networking event will be conducted subject to sufficient participant interest and at the discretion of IIM Calcutta.
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    Note:

    Equivalent amount in the applicable currency at the time of payment, plus applicable taxes, if any

    Learner Feedback on the Storytelling for Leadership Programme by IIM Calcutta

    My storytelling for communication journey completing the Mastering Storytelling for Leadership programme has changed the way I think about communication as a leader. One of my biggest learnings was that leadership communication is not simply about presenting information—it is about creating meaning, building connection, and inspiring action. Through the programme, I learnt how to structure narratives, use data to tell compelling stories, understand different audiences, and communicate complex ideas with greater clarity and purpose. More importantly, after many years of leadership experience, the programme reminded me that learning never really stops. There is always an opportunity to challenge how we think, communicate and lead. I leave this journey not just with new storytelling frameworks, but with a stronger belief that the best leaders dont just have a message—they know how to make people believe in it. Thank you Emeritus and IIM Calcutta for an enriching learning experience....
    Melroy Andrew Sharpe
    Melroy Andrew Sharpe
    Senior VP II - Vertical Head - Debt Management | HDFC Bank Ltd
    The programme's rich curriculum—covering persuasion, leadership communication, storytelling with data, AI and communication, personal branding, public speaking, and cross-cultural storytelling—this will deeply enrich my teaching, research, curriculum design, and future FDPs and MDPs. Yet, the greatest learning came from the cohort. Professionals from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and geographies came together as classmates and left as friends....
    Dr Madhulika Saxena IIMC MSLCI
    Dr. Madhulika Saxena
    Assistant Professor | BML Munjal University
    My longing for continuous learning and growth led me to take a deliberate step. I enrolled in Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence at IIM Calcutta- and it fundamentally shifted how I think about communication, influence, and leadership presence. Today, I walk away not just with a certificate from one of India's most prestigious institutions, but with a sharper lens on how I lead conversations, build trust, and shape narratives - in boardrooms, client meetings, and beyond. I would like to thank #IIMC and Emeritus for facilitating such a wonderful program and especially Andrea Stone for engaging us in such insightful sessions....
    Praveen Kumar Krishnasamy
    Technical Sales Manager | Front End Limited
    This program helped me to learn different frameworks to structure my communication. Prof. Nandita's videos helped to quickly understand the frameworks as those were explained with some good scenarios. Following that, live sessions with our program leader Andrea was helpful to practice these frameworks in collaboration with fellow learners. Now that i have these structures in my mind, it will be more of mapping these structures into different communications in my daily job. I just started applying them and could see positive reactions to my communication. I would like to build on this. Overall, I would love to build on this to grow in my career. I also believe connections I was able to make as part of the course will have an impact beyond story telling. ...
    Matta Reddy Mannem
    Director of Software Engineering, Decisioning & AI | Pegasystems India Pvt Ltd
    I found the sessions in Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme very interactive and task oriented. This made the sessions very interesting.
    Dr. Srillekha Debnath
    Founder & MD | Accounts Rockstars
    The modules on AI and GenAI were surprisingly insightful. They helped me understand how to use these tools to enhance storytelling, whether it’s refining narratives, personalising communication, or improving efficiency. It gave me a modern edge in how I approach communication, especially in fast-paced, digital-first environments....
    Satarupa Kaur
    Branding and Comms Specialist

    What Participants of IIM Calcutta’s Storytelling for Leadership Programme are Saying

    Learners of the IIM Calcutta Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication & Influence Programme consistently highlight the following aspects of their learning experience:

    • An engaging learning experience through interactive live sessions, self-paced modules, and hands-on assignments.

    • Exceptional faculty and programme delivery, with learners consistently appreciating the guidance of Prof. Nandita Roy and the programme team.

    • Practical storytelling frameworks that help participants structure communication with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

    • High-quality learning content including well-designed videos, reading materials, case-based exercises, and detailed assignment feedback.

    • Collaborative peer learning that encourages knowledge sharing, meaningful discussions, and lasting professional connections.

    Engage in Live Masterclasses on Storytelling with Industry Experts

    As part of the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme, these interactive sessions are designed to complement faculty‑led learning with industry perspectives:
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    Cross-Cultural Storytelling

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    Personal Branding Through Storytelling

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    Public Speaking

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    Building Your Own Story Bank

    Business Storytelling with Powerful Frameworks

    These core storytelling frameworks are taught as part of the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme curriculum to help make business forecasting more persuasive, turning data‑driven insights into narratives that are engaging, actionable, and relevant for stakeholders:
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    Freytag's Pyramid: The "Problem to Solution" Approach

    • What it is: A classic story structure that helps explain forecasts clearly.

    • How it works:

    We set the stage (context).

    Show the developing challenges (trends).

    Reveal the key forecast (the answer).

    Explain what it means (implications).

    Give you clear next steps (recommendations).

    • Why it matters: Makes forecasts easy to understand and act on.

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    The Monomyth (Hero's Journey): The "Data Adventure"

    • What it is: A story framework that turns data into a relatable journey.

    • How it works:

    We show why the forecast is needed (the start).

    Explain the data challenges (the obstacles).

    Reveal the key insights (the discovery).

    Give you clear actions to take (the return).

    • Why it matters: Makes complex data engaging and shows you the path forward.

    Faculty Teaching Leadership Storytelling at IIM Calcutta

    Professor Nandita Roy

    Professor Nandita Roy

    Assistant Professor, Business Ethics & Communication

    Nandita Roy specialises in business ethics and communication and continues to research the combination of stories, culture and technology. Currently, a faculty at IIM Calcutta...

    How the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme Addresses Leadership Communication Challenges

    Leadership Communication Challenge

    What you Gain at IIM Calcutta

    Leadership Impact

    Leaders rely on data and analysis but struggle to communicate insights persuasively to stakeholders.

    Teaches structured storytelling frameworks (e.g. Freytag’s Pyramid, Hero’s Journey) to convert forecasts and analytics into clear, compelling narratives.

    Stronger executive presence and the ability to influence strategic decisions through storytelling.

    Business communication fails to engage diverse audiences across teams, cultures, and leadership levels.

    Develops cross‑cultural storytelling and audience‑centric communication skills through faculty‑led instruction and applied cases.

    Improved stakeholder alignment and credibility in complex, multicultural environments.

    Storytelling is recognised as important, but leaders lack frameworks to apply it consistently in leadership roles.

    Provides leadership storytelling frameworks, narrative persuasion tools, and real‑world case learning guided by IIM Calcutta faculty.

    More confident, structured, and impactful leadership communication.

    Communication remains transactional, limiting trust, alignment, and long‑term influence.

    Emphasises applied learning through real‑world case studies, faculty‑guided capstone projects, and industry‑led masterclasses.

    Greater ability to build trust, inspire teams, and drive organisational change through communication.

    Leaders need to integrate AI and GenAI into communication but lack structured guidance.

    Introduces AI‑enabled storytelling, GenAI tools for communication strategies, and data‑driven narrative design.

    Future‑ready communication capabilities aligned with evolving leadership and technology demands.

    Industry Expert

    Andrea-Stone

    Andrea Stone

    Founder, Leadership Coach ( LinkedIn Top Voice)

    With over 25 years of experience in marketing and product roles in global technology industries and in leadership development, Andrea has led teams across Asia and Europe.
    ...

    Please note that the designated industry expert for the programme is subject to change after the programme commences.

    Industry Experts' sessions could be scheduled on a different time zone, depending on speaker availability.

    Sample certificate from IIM Calcutta for Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence program

    Certificate of Completion from IIM Calcutta

    Participants will be awarded a certificate of completion upon successfully meeting the programme’s evaluation requirements, including achieving a minimum score of 65% across all assessments.

    Notes:

    • The certificate shown above is for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact prototype of the actual certificate.

    • IIM Calcutta reserves the right to change the certificate and specifications without notice.

    How Does This Certificate from IIM Calcutta Boost Your Leadership and Personal Brand?

    • Cultivate emotional intelligence for effective leadership and strategic decision-making.

    • Develop a clear understanding of strong vs. weak ties and the impact of redundant vs. efficient connections.

    • Identify communication strategies to build a professional network, credibility, and rapport with stakeholders.

    • Master the art of storytelling to engage with audiences and drive change.

    • Leverage strengths to build a personal brand.

    • Utilise digital platforms and social media for effective personal branding.

    • Apply AI and GenAI in building an executive presence.

    Frequently Asked Questions About the IIM Calcutta Storytelling Programme

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme is an IIM Calcutta leadership communication programme designed to help business leaders and managers use structured storytelling to influence stakeholders, build executive presence, and communicate with clarity and impact. The programme focuses on leadership storytelling, executive communication, and data‑driven narratives through a blend of academic frameworks and real‑world business contexts. Delivered as a 20‑week online IIM certificate programme, it equips participants to apply storytelling across leadership communication, decision‑making, persuasion, and personal branding.

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme by IIM Calcutta supports leadership development by enhancing executive presence, communication skills, and the ability to influence through storytelling. It equips professionals to lead with clarity, connect with diverse audiences, and drive strategic impact—core to effective leadership today.

    This leadership communication and storytelling programme is designed for mid‑ to senior‑level managers, business leaders, and professionals in leadership roles who want to strengthen their leadership communication and executive presence. It is particularly suited for managers seeking a storytelling for leaders course in India that goes beyond basic communication skills. The programme is also relevant for professionals preparing for leadership roles and graduates (10+2+3) from a recognised university who want an executive communication programme from IIM Calcutta with practical workplace application.

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme covers leadership storytelling frameworks, persuasive communication, executive presence, personal branding, and data storytelling. Participants learn how to structure impactful narratives using established models such as Freytag’s Pyramid for leadership storytelling and the Monomyth framework.

    The programme includes modules on leadership communication, digital storytelling, storytelling with data, cross‑cultural communication, public speaking, GenAI‑enabled storytelling, and building a personal story bank for leadership and professional contexts.

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme by IIM Calcutta follows a blended learning format. It is delivered as a 20‑week online IIM certificate programme, requiring approximately 4 to 6 hours of learning per week. The learning format combines pre‑recorded lectures by IIM Calcutta faculty, live online masterclasses by industry experts, case‑based learning, and a faculty‑guided capstone project.

    Participants also have the option to attend a one‑day on‑campus networking event at IIM Calcutta, subject to participant interest and institute discretion.

    Storytelling in leadership is the use of strategic narratives to enhance leadership communication, build executive presence, and influence teams with purpose and clarity. It helps transform data into impactful messages that drive engagement and alignment. As highlighted in the Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme by IIM Calcutta, storytelling is essential for building trust, communicating vision, and demonstrating effective leadership in dynamic business environments.

    Yes, The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme by IIM Calcutta explicitly focuses on building executive presence and personal branding through storytelling. Participants learn how to craft authentic leadership narratives, communicate persuasively, and strengthen their professional identity across meetings, presentations, and digital platforms.

    This makes the programme relevant for professionals seeking a personal branding course for managers in India grounded in leadership communication and storytelling.

    Yes, participants who successfully complete the IIMC Storytelling for leadership programme and achieve a minimum of 65% in all evaluations and quizzes will receive a certificate of completion from IIM Calcutta. This credential qualifies as a leadership storytelling online certificate and can be used on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and professional portfolios, aligning with the expectations of an executive communication programme from IIM Calcutta.

    Yes, the Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme includes dedicated modules on storytelling with data and data‑driven narratives. Participants learn how to transform data and insights into persuasive business stories using structured frameworks and visual communication principles. This makes it especially relevant for professionals looking for a data storytelling course for executives that connects analytical thinking with leadership communication.

    Choosing the best leadership communication course in India for 2026 depends on your professional goals, the level of skills you want to build, and the flexibility you require as a working professional. Important factors to consider include institute reputation, curriculum depth, faculty expertise, focus on real-world communication challenges, and the opportunity to learn practical storytelling and influence techniques relevant to today’s business environment.

    The Mastering Storytelling for Leadership Communication and Influence programme from IIM Calcutta is a strong option for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership communication capabilities. As a 20‑week executive online programme, it combines structured storytelling frameworks such as Freytag’s Pyramid—with modern AI and GenAI applications to help leaders influence stakeholders, strengthen executive presence, and communicate with greater clarity. Priced at ₹1,59,900 + GST + Online Processing Fee, it allows working professionals to upskill without interrupting their careers and has been rated 4.52 by past learners.

    Early registrations are encouraged. Seats fill up quickly!

    Flexible payment options available.

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