Using the following 8 tips for socializing at a party, even a shy person is able to get into the swing of things relatively quickly. Practice some of these tactics on friends to get some feedback. It might make it easier if you are more familiar with how to engage with someone in a party situation if you practice in the comfort of your own home. Let me know what you think!

8. Be positive and upbeat

People generally like to be surrounded by happy individuals. Keep a positive outlook on things, laugh, and remain light-hearted as much as possible. No one goes to a party expecting to meet a bunch of sour apples. Memorize a few good jokes. Make sure they are ones anyone would enjoy, so you won’t have to worry about offending someone right off the bat.

7. Find something in common

Are you both wearing the same shoes? Have you seen each other at the local library? Were you both invited to the party by a mutual friend? Try to find out something you might both have in common and start chatting about it. Most people find it easier to talk to someone when you both have something in common.

6. Make good eye contact

This is a tough one for some people. Making eye contact can really freak people out. You might have a hard time looking at someone for too long because you are afraid that person will think you are staring at him/her. Or, you could be the type of person who thinks someone who makes eye contact for a long time is rather creepy. You don’t have to try to stare someone down to get their attention. Acknowledge a person who makes contact with your eyes and you might be able to strike up a conversation much easier.