Tips for Mingling at a Party

How to Get the Most Out of the Party Scene

Some people were born to mingle. They're the ones you see at the party, talking and laughing with everyone, seemingly knowing everyone there. The truth is that they probably only know a few people. But they know how to work a crowd.

Mingling isn't as hard as it seems. Even if you consider yourself to be shy, social interaction at a party is expected. Contrary to what you might think, many others there are probably just as unsure of themselves as you are. Next time you're thrust into the social scene, try some of these helpful tips to keep from being a party wallflower.

1.Utilize the perma-grin - The best tool to have when embarking on a party mingling mission is a smile. It gives you a friendly aura and makes it look like you're having fun, even when you're not. People are drawn to those who are happy. The more you smile, the easier it will be to talk to people, and eventually, you might not have to fake it at all.

2.Have a drink in your hand - While liquid courage is always helpful, the point of this tip isn't to get you buzzed enough to mingle, but to help keep your hands loose and out in the open. The tendency for those experiencing social discomfort is to cross their arms over their chest or wrap them around their midsection. Both poses give the body language message of being unapproachable - a definite no-no for anyone looking to mingle. Having a drink, even a non-alcoholic one, in one hand will give you a more inviting look to those looking to chat.

3.Center on a fellow wallflower - There's a good chance you're not the only one too shy to start your night out mingling. So find someone else who looks just as uncomfortable and make it a point to talk to them. You'll be the one to come across as outgoing by putting someone else at ease. Besides, having a partner in crime makes the mingling all that much easier when it comes to tackling the big crowd.