Overcoming "Mingle Phobia"
- Do some Homework!- Find out who will be attending the function. If your organization is sponsoring the event, it is a simple matter to ask for the guest list. If another company is hosting the function, you can certainly inquire about the other guests when you respond to the invitation. People will appreciate and note your effort. While you don't want to ask for the entire list for a large function, you can request information on organizations that will be represented
- Do the listening- If the thought of having to talk to a lot of people whom you don't know well is unsettling, remember that a good conversationalist is not one who does all the talking. If you listen more than you speak, you will be successful at conversation and others will find you more interesting.
- Stick and Move- When you arrive at the function, make a point of moving around and meeting and talking with different people. Since the purpose of these functions is to establish business relationships, you want to talk to as many people as possible. Successful people know how to work a room by having short conversations with a number of people.
- Take a Break- Feel free to take a break from the mingling and enjoy appetizers or a conversation with someone you know. You may want to reserve a specific amount of time that you feel comfortable "mingling."
Feeling Comfortable in a Room of Strangers
Approach "Wall Flowers"
Approaching those individuals who are standing alone may be a great way of getting to know someone without having to interrupt a large group. Additionally, these people will be as pleased as you are at the prospect of having someone to speak with.
"Most Important Person" Syndrome
Remember to treat everyone that you come in contact with as though they are the most important person in the world. If you exhibit this level of enthusiasm upon meeting people it shows your sincere interest in others, which should lead to others perceiving you as just as interesting.
Keep Your Distance
Although, the preferred method of networking involves actually coming in contact with others you do not want to overstep boundaries. It is recommended that during introductions or holding a conversation it is important to keep an arms length distance between those you are speaking with and yourself. Respecting others territory is a good way to make strangers comfortable being around you.
