Networking: Five fun ways to network

Are you excited about landing new business this year? Then you need to get ready, get out of your office, and show up. These hot networking tips will inspire you to work any room like a Fireball. 1. Bring It: Bring a sense of purpose to every networking activity. Set a goal and commit to it. Do you want to expand into a new market, land bigger clients, or change careers? Then you need to make strategic connections with the right people. Not just random conversation. 2. Wing It: Bring along a wingman or wingwoman. If you're shy about talking to strangers, team up with a fearless Fireball. Extroverts love connecting introverts. This makes it a "win-win-wing" situation for everyone. We provide wing services (fancy name: Facilitated Networking) to keep you company and help you fly. 3. Bling It: Wear something bright and shiny - such as your smile. Sparkly pins, cufflinks and business card holders are also valuable conversation starters. For added attention, tattoo your logo across your forehead. 4. Sing It: The elevator pitch is so last year. You need to deliver an engaging Fireball Pitch with style, substance and impact! Use metaphors and stories to describe your services. Share a fun fact about yourself. Deliver details that people will remember when you follow up. 5. Zing It: Zing means "vitality, animation or zest..." (dictionary. com). Dull and boring are bad networkers. Enthusiasm and positive energy are awesome networkers. Be passionate about creating new relationships and opportunities. Be interested, interesting, and fun. (Bonus points if you're funny, or just funny looking.) If you want expert help to improve your networking skills, hire Fireball Network. Deena Baikowitz is the chief networking officer at Fireball Network, New York, N.Y.