How to Converse at a Party

      

Parties offer an opportunity to meet new people.

Conversation is easier for some than it is for others. Finding just the right topic to initiate a conversation or to keep it going eludes many party-goers to the point that they avoid parties altogether. If you like the social aspect of parties but feel awkward or embarrassed when striking up a conversation, learning and practicing the art of conversation can help you feel more at ease at your next gathering.

Instructions

1.       

• 1

Practice conversation starters before you head to the party. Come up with five to 10 questions you might ask a stranger or someone you don't know very well to initiate a conversation. That way, you won't have to think on the spot when you get to the party.

• 2

Be confident. You may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable because you don't know many -- if any -- people at the party. Keep in mind that other party-goers may be in a similar situation but lack the confidence to approach you. Don't be afraid to initiate conversation using the conversation starters you practiced before you arrived.

• 3

Pose open-ended questions. Open-ended questions are questions that can't be answered with one word, such as "yes" or "no." For example, a question that starts with "What do you think of ... " requires your conversation partner to provide an answer of at least one sentence, which will open the door for follow-up questions and further conversation.

• 4

Avoid talking too much or talking only about yourself, which can be a turn-off. Keep the focus on your conversation partner, and talk about yourself only if it is necessary to the flow of conversation. This is sometimes referred to as the 80-20 rule: Limit talking about yourself to 20 percent of the conversation, while asking questions or focusing on external subjects 80 percent of the time.

• 5

Talk about subjects directly related to the party or the host of the party. Find out how your conversation partner knows the host. Maybe the three of you have a common history -- a school, club or activity that each of you attended or participated in. Try to identify that connection and use it to deepen a conversation.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a good impression on other party guests by smiling and assuming a warm and welcoming appearance. This will make it easier and more tempting for other guests to approach you.