Some Conversational Tips
Try teaming up with a colleague. The buddy system helps to get round the room more effectively, particularly if it is a large gathering. Ask your host to help if there is someone you specifically want to meet. They can arrange to introduce you.
Have a trivial, little-known fact to trigger interest if conversation flags.
If you use your three best opening gambits and still have made little progress,
prepare to move on.Watch others in action and emulate those you admire. You can always learn from any situation, however experienced you are. If someone else’s actions make you
cringe with embarrassment at least you’ve seen how not to do something.
Keeping your eyes and ears open to what is going on around you heightens awareness.
When moving from group to group around the room
do so with purpose but in a controlled manner. You’ll be surprised how many people will notice you.
Allow your voice to have expression when you chat. Warmth and confidence encourage responses in others.
However fascinating you may find one person,
don’t ignore the rest of your group. Encourage others to talk about themselves or their interests.
Use pauses for effect. Never underestimate the power of silence. You will have your companions’ undivided attention – at least for a few seconds!
Don’t interrupt when someone else is speaking, however witty the comment you want to make. This is rude and alienates people.
Networking Is Fun
Remember to enjoy yourself, the venue and the hospitality. After all, this is supposed to be a social occasion, even though it is work-related. Be entertaining
(within reason) – again this does not require limbo dancing and the like.
Mix with the other guests. Don’t get glued to one spot or stick to one group.
Move outside your own comfort zone – be brave. You never know who you might meet. If there is someone you particularly want to meet, make contact at some point during the event. Even if they are about to leave hand them your card and ask for their email address. Never miss an opportunity if you can help it.
Enthusiasm is catching. Being positive is attractive. It helps shyness evaporate and will get you noticed, but stay in control – watch the alcohol consumption.
If you are anxious to break into a closely-knit group who seem reluctant to split, you could take a plate of food and offer it to them. Then stay with them. This can go wrong if you happen to be dressed in black and white at the time (as has happened to me). You may be mistaken for one of the catering staff!
Ways To Handle Awkward Situations
If you make an embarrassing social gaffe, have the courage to admit the fault and apologise. Being upfront and honest can turn a mistake to your advantage.
Avoid a difficult question by asking someone else’s view. You could even turn the question round and ask the person posing the question for their response. When you have listened to their reply it may help your own reaction.
If someone drops a bombshell they may be testing your response. Rather than give them the satisfaction of erupting, try to suspend reaction. A measured acknowledgement buys you time and can save faces and reputations.
Making a tactical and diplomatic withdrawal from a potentially explosive situation is sometimes the only way to avoid disaster. Have an escape route handy, such as, ‘I’ve just seen my host beckoning to me – please excuse me, I must go.’
If you are forced to listen to gossip, steer clear of getting involved in the discussion. Do not get drawn into conversation. Offer advice only when specifically asked for it. No one likes a know-it-all.