Anchor on the problem you help solve
Every role exists to remove a specific friction. The first step in story-driven applications is understanding that friction and making it your north star. Research the company, read between the lines of the job spec, listen to podcasts where executives speak about priorities.
Your opening paragraph should make it clear you grasp that problem and have tackled something similar. This immediately reframes you from “applicant” to “potential answer”.
Use narrative arcs, not bullet dumps
Instead of listing responsibilities, craft short narratives that follow a hook → tension → resolution pattern. Hooks capture attention, tension shows the stakes, resolution proves your impact. Keep each story compact—three to four sentences.
Wayfind’s builder helps structure these arcs quickly by prompting for the situation, action and outcome. Pair that with metrics to reinforce credibility.
Close with momentum
End your application by signalling what you would explore in your first conversations. Mention a product idea you want to test, a partnership angle to investigate, or a process you would audit. Demonstrate curiosity and initiative.
This forward-looking close shows you are already thinking like an insider and invites the hiring team to continue the conversation.