2008 Professional Development SeriesThis year, the Urbana Business Association will be switching its networking event focus to a professional development series, which we believe will be more useful in networking than your average after hours event. Each month, we will offer new and unique ways to improve your business relationships. Network to Networth! Keep on the look out for updated information as it comes available. JanuaryJanuary's networking event was hosted by O'Brien Auto Park and was a fantastic kick-off to the 2008 season! The topic of this month's event was "How to Pitch Yourself at Business or Networking Events". An employee from the U of I Office of Training for Business presented to members tips and techniques to build business relationships via effective ways of introducing yourself and creating small talk that gets the ball rolling. Afterwards, participants got a chance to try out these new techniques getting to know one another while enjoying cocktails and hors' d'oeuvres compliments of O'Brien Auto Park. Everyone had a great time and is looking forward to next month's event, hosted by the Urbana Park District. FebruaryFebruary's networking event will be hosted by the Urbana Park District on Wednesday, February 13 from 5:00-7:00pm. The topic of this month's event will be speed networking. Similar to speed dating, speed networking gives participants a chance to continue practicing the skills they learned in last month's networking event while meeting new professionals in a fun and entertaining way. The event will take place at the Lake House at Crystal Lake Park. Cocktails and hors' d'oeuvres served, compliments of the Urbana Park District. The cost is always FREE for UBA Members! *Don't forget your business cards! | 
