Does business need to be so serious?

When it comes to business connecting, whether online or off, who says it has to be so serious. It's 2009 people. We've already gotten rid of the power tie. It's time to get rid of that power hold on professionalism. Yes you want to present yourself as competent in what your doing or about to do. But have some fun with it. Especially if you're online. If you've joined a social networking website and they don't allow you to change your background color or image. Then I would recommend finding one that does. You should still stay with the site that is more professional just to broaden your network. But visit the site that allows you to make changes and have fun with your profile more frequently. The people you meet on these sites will most likely be the most fun when you meet in person. These websites tend to have groups that are more original and fun to participate in. You want to interact with people who don't take themselves to seriously. That way when you mess up, they are more likely to forgive you. :)

Times are hard enough. Don't stress about every little thing you say or do. If you are looking for clients rather than customers then you have to make sure you get along with the person. There's nothing worse then having a client who is hard to be around or difficult to deal with. Make sure you understand the person from the beginning. As long as you accept people for who they are you know what to expect when meeting with them.

I don't want to get all deep and philosophical on you. Just thought I'd put that out there for discussion. So make sure you join some really fun social sites like Bebo, Myspace, and if you're in Ohio check out a growing website at http://ohiobusiness.ning.com. Visit other Ning websites as well as they are growing as well and you are sure to find a fun one to suite your needs.