1. Be proactive

Most people know exactly what they want out of their careers and have a clearly defined set of goals. But when it comes to finding a partner, it's often left to chance. You'd never be that random with your job! If you really want to find that special someone, make dating as important as your career. The first step is to tell everyone you know that you're available. Tell your friends, your co-workers, your hairdresser and the neighbors. Heck, tell the cable guy.

Get the word out. Don't make a big deal of it, just casually let them know you're on the lookout for eligible dates, so if they happen to know someone who you might hit it off with… you get the idea! If you keep it a secret, chances are you'll be home alone most weekends, so don't be shy, and drop the occasional hint. How else is the world supposed to know?

2. Be open

The best advice we can give you is to be open to meeting someone everywhere you go. There are lots of opportunities throughout your regular day to meet your future partner. You just need to have your radar turned on. Think about it. You could meet her over your morning latte; on the train heading to work; while standing in line for a chicken salad, cruising through the produce aisle, at the dry cleaners or the gym.

Interesting people are all around us, but we're all so consumed with our busy lives that we rarely take the time to look up. So start today! Notice your surroundings and the people who cohabit them. Here's what will make the biggest difference and allow serendipity to do its thing: being aware, keeping a friendly smile on your face and not being afraid to say hello once in a while.

3. Widen your scope

Don't limit your options by thinking someone is not right for you, is beneath or above you, or isn't your usual type. That high-powered corporate attorney who helped negotiate your company's last acquisition might be longing to go out with someone who is creative and free spirited — you!

Don't get turned off because of occupation, income, height, number of children, fitness level, hair color, hobbies, musical tastes, shyness, boldness or whatever. Right now you're just looking for dates— and like job opportunities or taxis — when one appears, a whole slew of others seem to follow. Try not to focus on the ultimate goal, but think more about putting your dating skills into practice and having some fun.

4. Create a ripple effect

Do you know why it's smart to talk to anyone, anywhere, even if that person doesn't seem to be your type? Well, if you throw a pebble into the dating pool, it can have a significant ripple effect that is sure to benefit you.

A 30-year-old female friend of ours recently met a 60-year-old woman at an art exhibition. Even though the older woman was twice her age, the two found they had many things in common, especially their taste in art. The woman later introduced our friend to her nephew and they've been out several times since.

Having a genuine interest in getting to know new people and keeping an open mind while you're networking might end up being more valuable than you think. You just never know who that person might introduce you to in the future. Similarly, if you meet someone you like, but you don't feel a love connection, why not offer to set him or her up with a friend?

Never turn down a party invitation or an opportunity to expand your network of friends and potential dates. Seek like-minded people who can introduce you to colleagues of a similar quality. Expanding your network will ensure a life rich with opportunity and happy times.