Written by Haylee Bjork
As we move into 2026 and reflect on 2025, it’s worth recognizing the twists and turns that have shaped where we are today. I try to do this daily, through showing gratitude or by doing one good deed a day (advice from my Grandma Sandy). Reflection like this doesn’t just belong in our personal lives; it’s just as valuable professionally.
Sharing your story in a professional setting is a powerful tool for growth and confidence. While working with entrepreneurs, my favorite questions are always, “How did you start your business?” or “Where did the idea come from?” The answers are often where the real impact lies.
Below are three simple ways entrepreneurs and professionals can tell their story, and why it matters more than you might think.
1. Go to Events
Attending events provides the perfect opportunity to share your story face-to-face with like-minded individuals, which is one of the most effective ways to expand your network. I know, this is easier said than done, especially if you’re a homebody or new to networking. Putting yourself in unfamiliar spaces can feel intimidating. However, Grand Forks offers welcoming events that are perfect for professionals at any stage of their journey.
The Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals hosts events designed to connect people across industries and experience levels (and despite the name, all ages are welcome!). From broomball nights to community volunteer opportunities, these events create relaxed environments where conversations and stories happen naturally.
Another great series of events to look out for is UpNext, which highlights local business owners while creating meaningful networking opportunities. Events like these allow individuals to practice telling their story organically, whether that’s about their business, career path, or what led them to where they are today.
2. Post on Social Media
Social media can feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most accessible ways to tell your story on your own terms. Your story doesn’t have to be perfectly written or highly produced; it just has to be authentic.
Sharing milestones, lessons learned, challenges, or even behind-the-scenes moments on social media platforms such as LinkedIn helps humanize your work and builds trust with your audience. For entrepreneurs, especially, people are often just as interested in the why behind the business as they are in the product or service itself.
Posting consistently, even something small, can help you clarify your own narrative, build confidence in sharing it, and create connections you may not expect. You never know who is reading, resonating, or quietly rooting for your journey!
3. Connect with organizations that support entrepreneurs
Telling your story becomes even more impactful when you share it with people and organizations that are invested in your growth. Connecting with groups like UND’s CFI, the Grand Forks Region EDC, Evolve Grand Forks, the Chamber, ND SBDC, and other ecosystem partners opens doors to resources, mentorship, and opportunities you may not find on your own.
These organizations want to understand your story, where you’ve been, what you’re building, and where you hope to go. The more you share, the more they can tailor support, make introductions, and help amplify your work.
Beyond the tangible benefits, these connections remind entrepreneurs that they’re not building alone. Sharing your story within a supportive ecosystem can be validating, motivating, and a powerful reminder of how far you’ve already come.
Your Story Matters
Telling your story, whether in a conversation, a post, or through community connections, allows others to see the person behind the work. When you reflect on where you’ve been and share it openly, you build trust, confidence, and meaningful relationships along the way. Your journey is still unfolding, and sharing it can be the first step toward what comes next.
Do you need support on how to start your storytelling journey? Feel free to reach out to me at haylee.b@innovators.net, and see how CFI can help you start!