It can be intimidating to join a social group for the first time, whether it’s at a local coffee shop or at the mall, especially for those that find they are introverted.
Fortunately, there are a number of simple tricks that can allow just about anyone to more effectively gel with a new group while out socialising.
Initiating With Strangers
While it’s often incredibly intimidating to be the one to initiate a conversation, it can be a fantastic way to break the ice when interacting with a new person or group of people. Waiting for others to always talk can lead to them wanting to find someone more engaging, and others will quickly find that you’re difficult to talk to.
And while we don’t always have the time to talk to everyone we come across, it’s imperative to at least try and initiate with anyone that willing to listen. It can prove to be a good way of making new friends, while also giving you a confidence boost.
Learning Non-verbal Communication
Although it is essential to initiate a discussion, note that socializing does not always mean talking. In reality, your smile is your strongest weapon in any type of socialization. Not only will its use cause no damage to the recipient, it also guides the conversation to your advantage.
No other form of body language can match the positivity that a smile can offer. Bear in mind, though, that your smile should always be genuine. People are easily able to pick up when your smile is not authentic, and it can be a turn off for many. Your body language should show your enjoyment in speaking to the person.
Listen During The Conversation
People enjoy talking about themselves. So listening to what they have to say can make it easier to connect with them on a more personal level. Listening to them will not only allow you to earn their trust, but it can help you better learn more about the person and help with subsequent conversations down the line.
And while it’s difficult to remember all the details of what a person says about themselves, holding on to a few of those individual’s details – whether it’s their love of animals, online betting, or anything they enjoy – can prove to be a great way of talking to them again in the future, making it every time the two of you cross paths in the future.
Focus On One Person
If you’re at a party or any other gathering, it can be extremely easy to become distracted. If you’re trying having a discussion with a single person, make sure to keep all your attention on them.
It is an important element of any discussion to maintain eye contact, and it can quickly make the conversation uncomfortable if you’re constantly breaking eye contact.
Avoid Judging Strangers
As much as we don’t want to judge individuals without understanding them well and vice versa, it’s a reality that only a few of us can effectively prevent ourselves from doing it.
It’s important to try and give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and to accept their opinion, even if what they’re saying doesn’t align with your own values.