Mark your calendar for Thursday (4/23/09)

April 19, 9:38 AMTampa Women's Business ExaminerChris Kuhn

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When it comes to finding that next big opportunity whether it's a new position, shared knowledge or a prospective customer, nothing is more vital than networking.

I have to admit that I haven't always been the most confident networker. Today, I'm still fairly shy (my friends will laugh at this observation) but it takes some serious busting through my comfort zone to introduce myself to a total stranger. Blame it on an INFJ Myers-Briggs affliction.

What's helped me overcome this timidity is the realization that we are in fact not really strangers at all. As long as we share some things in common and maybe even some mutual acquaintances in our social or business circles, we really do have a starting point (Facebook and LinkedIn have certainly demonstrated that!)

So here's a great opportunity to join me in stretching that networking muscle!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: 
Working Women of Tampa Bay are holding their April Girls' Night Out event on Thursday, April 23 from 6:30-8:30pm at Engel & Volkers in Downtown Clearwater (432 Cleveland St., Suite B). This month's topic - Growing Your Professional Network, led by speaker and networking etiquette coach Patricia Rossi. It's $20 online in advance, $25 at the door, and the event includes free wine and appetizers and a goody bag. Best of all, it's a terrific opportunity to meet and learn from 49 other professional women in the Bay area sharing some of the same victories and struggles that you do every day.

Just bought my ticket...hope to see you there!