Mingling with people you don't know well isn't easy, especially if you don't like small talk, and after all, who does? However, if you want to get to know people, you have to start somewhere, and socializing usually leads to deeper relationships. The guy you meet at the party may end up being your best friend, or the girl you're introduced to at a business event might help you land a new job. You never know if you just hide in the corner.
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Part 1 of 3: Finding People to Chat with
Step 1. Look around the room for someone you know
It will be easier for you to blend in if there are people you already know, such as friends, coworkers, or acquaintances who can introduce you to other people. If you don't know anyone at the party or event, that's okay. You can still mingle. However, there's nothing wrong with using social relationships to help you get into somewhat awkward situations.
- Don't look too hard. Of course you don't want to make a closed impression on new people. In other words, try not to look like you're only looking for one person. Look around the room calmly and relaxed. Enjoy the atmosphere, but in the meantime, quickly look around the room for people you know.
- If you find him, but he's talking to someone else, wait a minute for him to look your way, then approach.
Step 2. Look for small groups
When you're in a room full of people you don't know well, it may be easier to approach a small group rather than a large one. Look for groups that appear to be having a casual chat. Pay attention to their body language. If they are standing very close to each other, they may not open up to new people. If their body language is open and friendly, they usually display a relaxed posture, their arms and legs are not crossed, and there are no boundaries between them. If they seem calm and approachable, approach and introduce yourself.
- You may feel awkward, but everyone feels that way at parties and social events. Most of them will be friendly and open.
- If a group of people ignore you and seem displeased, you can politely withdraw and join another group.
- Avoid people who seem to be engaging in intense one-on-one conversations. Most likely, your presence will silence them. You can tell who is having an intense conversation by watching their body language. If they're leaning close to each other, making passionate hand gestures, and making intense eye contact, it's best not to interrupt.
Step 3. Make yourself approachable
If you look around the room and don't immediately find someone to talk to, display an attitude that suggests that you are open to meeting new people. Find a position in the center of the room, don't just stand on the sidelines. Put on a friendly face that shows that you are approachable. There's a good chance someone will come over and say hello, so you don't have to take the first step.
- When someone approaches you, greet them in a friendly and courteous manner.
- Save the phone. Many people fiddle with their phones when they feel uncomfortable or don't know what to do. Try not to look at your phone as it will appear that you are avoiding social interactions.
- You might want to stand near heavy traffic, such as a dining table, bar, or giant ice sculpture in the center of the room. That way, you can talk about it as a way to start a chat.
Step 4. Help others to blend in
At a party, there are bound to be some people who don't know anyone and are awkward to mingle with others. Look for such people and introduce yourself. They'll thank you for your kindness, and who knows, you'll make new friends who have a lot in common.
If you're chatting with someone and someone approaches, include the new person in the chat. Don't be arrogant
Step 5. Don't stay in your comfort zone for too long
When you get a chance to talk to people you know, fight push to chat with him all the time. You will miss the opportunity to get to know other people and may come across as unfriendly to everyone present.
Have people you know introduce you to others and don't be shy about meeting new people
Step 6. Try to chat with a few different people
When it comes to socializing at parties, it's best to try to mix with different people because you never know what to expect from them. However, don't feel like you have to talk to everyone. If you can only hang out and chat with one person, that's fine. Maybe next time you'll manage to chat with two or three people.
Step 7. Know how to quit
If you're stuck in a chat you want to leave, think of a reason to say goodbye. There are many ways, but make sure you leave in a friendly and polite manner.
- You can say goodbye to the bathroom or get a drink.
- You could also say, "Oh, there's Jimmy! Come on, I'll introduce you." so you can involve other people in the conversation.
- Try saying, "I'd be happy to talk about this another time."
Part 2 of 3: Knowing What to Say and Do
Step 1. Smile
A smile is the easiest and most expressive expression to show strangers that you are fun. If you don't smile, the majority of people won't risk walking up and starting a conversation because you seem unapproachable. Not everyone can smile easily. For some people, a serious face is sometimes more comfortable. If you are one of them, try to get out of your comfort zone a little. Smiling is an important body language that usually sends the message that you are receptive and open to other people and conversations.
- Make sure your smile looks genuine. Smile with your whole face, including your eyes, not just your mouth. Think Julia Roberts smile, not Joker.
- Practice your smile before the party. Exercise isn't just to see what your face looks like when you smile so you can make adjustments, it's also in a good mood. It will make you want to smile.
Step 2. Introduce yourself
Start with a "hi" and say your name. It's easy and most people will respond well. After the introduction, continue with some questions to keep the conversation going. Here are suggestions you can try:
- "What brings you here tonight? I was Sarah's friend in college."
- "The music is great, isn't it? I love this band."
- "Are you part of wikiHow? I've heard about your great company."
Step 3. Establish eye contact and handshake of people you meet
Your attitude and body language are just as important as what you say. Eye contact is very important in order to connect with other people in the first second. Look the other person in the eye with confidence when you reach out, and shake his hand firmly (but not tightly). This is a great start to the conversation.
- Try not to look down too much because that makes you seem disinterested.
- If you're mingling with people you already know, use appropriate gestures to emphasize the level of closeness you already have. Maybe you need a hug, a kiss on the cheek, a pat on the shoulder, etc.
Step 4. Familiarize yourself
This means that even if you are meeting this person for the first time, you should treat him or her like a friend. He will be more comfortable and usually helps to smooth the conversation so it is not awkward anymore. This can speed up the introduction process. So, if you are friendly, kind, and appreciative, the other person will be happy to chat with you.
Try skipping the "introduction" topic to get straight to the topic of interest. For example, instead of asking, "how are you?" You can ask his opinion about the latest important events
Step 5. Show interest in the topic being discussed
When you enter an ongoing discussion or make friends with new people, show interest in what they are talking about. Even if you don't know anything about the topic, you can ask questions and show interest in finding out more.
- Don't pretend you know a topic you don't know. People usually like to answer questions and enjoy it. They won't judge you because you don't know as much as they do. It would be even worse if you were caught lying.
- Try asking questions that respond to what they just said. This shows that you are listening and interested.
- Try to direct the conversation to a topic that you both enjoy so that both parties can contribute as much as possible.
Step 6. Talk a little about yourself
Telling yourself can help start a conversation. If you are shy about expressing yourself, how will other people know you? Talk about your work, hobbies, interests, and opinions. Tell as much as the other person tells him about himself. Remember to always be cheerful, positive, and fun.
- However, don't go overboard and monopolize the conversation with details about yourself. There must be a balance here so that both parties listen and speak in equal parts.
- Don't complain or be negative (especially about the party, the hosts, or the food) even if you don't enjoy it. Nobody likes being around negative people.
- Also, avoid vulgar jokes or involving very sensitive topics, such as illness or death. If you touch this topic, other people may be offended.
Step 7. Be yourself
If you're being yourself, there's no need to try to be the star of the party and wow people with your wit. You can tell jokes, but not as a means of attracting attention. You will reap the benefits of social intercourse by caring for each person as an individual, bonding, and sharing.
Treat others at the party the way you would like to be treated, with respect and kindness
Part 3 of 3: Making the Most of Social Events
Step 1. View everyone as an opportunity
You may have a hard time finding your place when you walk into a room full of strangers. Watching people you don't know chat and laugh might make you shudder. However, they are all individuals just like you, just trying to get along and have a good time.
Step 2. Show genuine interest
Many people are afraid to chat with strangers, but there are other ways to mingle. If you can come with the intention of getting to know people, the prospect of meeting and chatting will suddenly seem more interesting and fun. Think of all parties or gatherings as opportunities to meet people with different histories, interests, and interests.
Remember, everyone teaches something. Hanging out and being in a relationship is fun. That's why there's a party
Step 3. Overcome feelings of inferiority
Before leaving, be prepared and remember to do the following:
- Dress appropriately so you don't have to worry about getting dressed wrong. The right clothes can boost your confidence and can be a starting point for a conversation.
- Brush your teeth and freshen up so you don't have to worry about your breath or tangles later.
- Try to rest beforehand. Try taking a nap if the event takes place in the afternoon or evening. If you're tired, it's hard to get along with a lot of people.
- Eat before leaving. You'll feel more energized and won't eat or drink too much at parties.
- Don't drink too much. Sometimes people think they need alcohol to relax. Although a little drink can help, most of it becomes a weapon to eat master. Remember to drink moderately.
- Take a deep breath and center yourself. Remember that you were invited for a reason: to hang out and have fun.
Step 4. Be sure to exchange contact information with the person you chatted with at the party
If you're lucky, there are some people you'd like to know more about. Don't be afraid to exchange phone numbers to create your own event next time. So the next time you get invited to the same party, you already know someone to chat with.
