okay to flirt while networking ?

I'm a woman in finance. My thought is, I'd really keep it very professional. Doesn't mean you cannot be friendly and outgoing if that's your personality. Some women (myself included) would find it amusing - really depends on age and demeanor. Many women in finance are very sensitive about "men acting creepy" and "bad vibes," There's really no benefit to flirting in this instance - it's better to be taken seriously and viewed as a viable candidate rather than someone who potentially will be a liability to a company or make female employees uncomfortable. I mentioned a funny story about a guy flirting with me at a company party, and the women at the table were appalled and told me I should have reported him, because one day he'll be in a position of authority and may behave inappropriately towards female subordinates who are afraid of reporting him. e.g. needs to be taught a lesson. I was like, how did you get to that level over this minor story? But other female finance professionals felt it was bad form to even flirt at a social gathering of the officemates. Decades ago (yes, that old), I think it would have been taken much more lightly. But people, men and women, see sexuality in the workplace as a Risk, with a capital R. I get where you're coming from, and yes, if you are finding a womn attractive, you will already give subtle signs without actually flirting, that you find them attractive without flat out "flirting." That's really where you should draw the limit, though. To someone my age, I find it cute when a guy in his 20s is obviously giving me a "you're attractive to me" smile and says nothing more telling than that. But many women (of all ages) are extremely on guard about that and disagree with me. I recently met some female colleagues for drinks and found that attitude to be the prevalent one, that it's inappropriate/unpleasant, to have anything said, or be even given the slightest look that's flirtatious. Most women feel it does not belong in the workplace, period. I personally have been quite amused with men flirting with me at work, but again, I think I'm the exception. So I'd tread extremely lightly here. It's not worth losing a solid networking opportunity, especially because I note that women are generally extremely interested in networking and helping other professionals. There are many other better places to flirt. I would not consider flirting to be persuasive at all. I would say you run a 90% chance of the woman being turned off, or even offended.
I wish it were still 1992 and you could get away with it. I think the complete neutering of the workplace is a bit much. And I don't blame you for liking women in finance - broadly (no pun intended) speaking, they're a bright, career-motivated yet empathetic, and attractive segment of the work force. Good luck, Cowboy