Tips on How to Break the Ice at Parties

You walk into a party and dozens of eyes turn to you. Embarrassed, you hurry to a corner of the room and hope you can become camouflaged by blending in with the wallpaper. The get-together just started, and you can already tell it's going to be a long night. If this sounds like a familiar scenario for you, then you need to learn some tips on how to break the ice at parties.

1. Before You Get There
Before you ever step one foot in the door, you'll need to stop, breathe and relax. You can't expect to talk to meet people and chat with them comfortably when your heart's racing, your hands are sweating and the perspiration is dripping off your forehead. So, relax and breathe in and out deeply.

If the party is at your own house, stop and breathe deeply before it starts.

2. Smile-Smile-Smile
When you enter the room, smile broadly and make eye contact. People are more drawn towards people who appear to be open and friendly.

3. Don't Go Empty-Handed
It's common courtesy to bring something to a party. If not food or something to contribute, make it a hostess gift. Having food or a gift in your hand gives you a prop. To help break the ice, you can ask someone where you should put your food, or ask where the hostess is so you can give her the gift.

If the conversation still hasn't started, then ask aloud, "I brought (food). Does anyone like (food)?" You're bound to get some replies that will break the ice because food is a popular subject.

4. Show an Interest in Others
If you're introduced to some of the other people at the party, start a conversation by asking them about their jobs, professions, families, et cetera. Use whatever information you already know about them. For example, if you're introduced to Dr. John Jones, after the exchange of greetings, you could ask him where his office is located, if he's a medical doctor or a specialist, and so on. Whatever you do, refrain from asking for free medical advice until you get to know him much better.