For shy, introverted, or anti-social personalities, parties and events can be more than surviving the day or night.
Here’s what you need to know.
In the networking age, parties, and events are frequent and most times our jobs and businesses depend on these social activities. So while you would prefer to stay indoors or confine yourself to groups you know, sometimes you’ll find yourself at an event or party.
Even if you are not completely alone, the people you know may not be close or well acquainted.
If you’re introverted or shy, navigating such situations alone can be so extraverted. But it is possible to have a good time even if it’s for a little while.
Remember, no one knows you are introverted or shy, so you can be anyone you want if the event calls for it.
1. Leave the negative attitude outside
If you have appeared on invitation or a friend has brought you along, it means they are looking forward to your company. So stop feeling like you don’t belong or like you have nothing to add to the event. Take the invitation as a confidence boost because your host certainly thinks highly of you.
2. Offer to help the host
Maybe getting lost in activity is your way of blending in. Asking to help the host around the venue can be a warm way to ease into the atmosphere and meet people. That barrier can give you space to avoid awkwardly standing around or making small talk.
3. Listen and let people talk
When you’re feeling nervous, it can be hard to focus on what someone is telling you. However, this can be made worse if you expect yourself to say much. Instead, give the other person or people all the time to talk about themselves. Pay attention to what they say and use it to push the conversation further in their direction. Being a good listener is just as satisfying in conversation as being a good orator. Pay attention to your body language to communicate your interest.
4. Spot other loners
They really want to talk. Put yourself out of your lonely misery by approaching another loner. Catch up with them over whatever they are doing. Avoid conversations around “how horrible it is going”.
5. Choose to have fun
Sometimes you have to make a conscious decision to have fun instead of waiting to be entertained. You can assume any personality, talk to anyone, be messy, and have other privileges available for you to try.
6. Have conversation starters ready
Have open conversation starters that can prompt others to talk. Avoid loaded questions or personal ones like “What do you do for a living?” or controversial topics. You can curate your questions around the event, host, food, and decor, among other things.
7. Make a clean exit
Feel free to leave once your obligations are fulfilled. If you were there to make an appearance, you can leave when that role has been fulfilled. If it is to network, leave when you feel like you have chatted with enough people. Thank your host, bid farewell to your new connections, or give out contact.
