Get the right answers by asking the right questions

I attended a networking lunch last week. I can cope with such situations, having learned the hard way over the years, but am not a natural. The "hard way" was asking questions that were too philosophical for the event (stick to the footy or Master-chef) and taking corporate clients to the cricket: a long haul if the client is not talkative.

If you suffer that awkward feeling when you don't know anyone in a room and you appear to be the only one, here are some tips: Find out who will be there beforehand (phone the organiser of the event if need be). If there is someone you particularly want to meet, you can ask the organiser for an introduction. Set an achievable target as to how many people you intend to meet.

If you find someone at the event who is alone, speak to them. Ask them "what brings you here today?" or simply, "do you mind if I join you?" It can be challenging breaking the ice, but you will be glad you did!
If you can get involved with the organisation of the event, do so. It will give you a role and reason to talk to people and need not feel awkward.

A great skill to have is the art of good conversation. Conversation, even so-called "small chat" is important to make others feel at ease and communicate with the world.

Here is a great article called "The one conversational tool that will make you better at absolutely everything".

Really, it will.

Link here.

Thanks to the Fast Company blog.