[Beyond Borders]

(11-01-2014 04:01 PM)Slacker101 Wrote:  

So I've not always been the most social person, I don't generally lack social skills though. In a professional setting or something of that nature, I excel. In social situations I can usually hold my own, particularly in small groups. The one thing I'm really bad at is parties. In this case I mean college parties for the most part, and it isn't always true but it's a general trend myself and a mate of mine noticed. He described it as a "lost puppy look" where I look like I don't know who to talk to or what to do blah blah. It particularly happens when I know a small amount of the people present. How do I conquer this shortfall and overcome it? I've also noticed it'll sometimes happen at bars where I know a small number of the people. Although it doesn't happen if I'm in an unfamiliar area, then I'm fine at meeting people etc.

Start conversations and even just make offhand jokes with random people. You need to break the ice - you can't just wait around for someone to show you a good time.

A simple "How's it going, Man" or a cheers are fine for icebreakers and will even be appreciated.

If it's all the social ambition you can muster, start with other loners or small groups. Even better, strike up conversations with people as they wander off from their big group to run party errands (i.e. get a drink or take a shit). If you're cool and they see you alone, they may directly or indirectly invite you back or gesture you over later.

Socializing with people on the fringe of bigger groups is often a great in too. Probably the best one.