Some people just make it seem so easy. They’re cool and confident in front of everyone they meet. For so many people, though, social situations are uncomfortable and awkward. They shy away from new people and unfamiliar situations. Perhaps they just haven’t taken the necessary steps to becoming more confident in social situations.

Simply being friendly can go a long way towards feeling more confident in any social situation. Greet everyone you meet with a smile and a handshake. While not everyone likes small talk, exchanging pleasantries about the weather and how you’re feeling are classic ways to get a conversation started. Look for opportunities to meet new people until these actions become second nature.

One way to feel more confident in social situations is to always have a topic of conversation ready. Taking a few minutes to peruse the newspaper every day or watching a half-hour news program can provide ideas. However, if you’re going to plan your conversation topics around the latest news, stick to non-controversial subjects. For the sake of socializing, you’ll want to take note of who’s likely to make it to the Super Bowl instead of contemplating the prospect of peace in the Middle East. Don’t forget about the power of pop culture and celebrity gossip to keep a conversation going.

In addition to giving you ways to start conversations, if you’re well-informed about the latest news, you’ll also be able to follow and take part in others’ conversations more easily. Another simple step to talking to others more comfortably and confidently is to work on your listening skills. Maintain eye contact with the person who is speaking. There is nothing quite as rude as looking around the party like you’re searching for someone more interesting to talk to while otherwise engaged in conversation. Nodding or making small noises of agreement or sympathy can be another way to show that you’re listening and interested. You should also ask questions as this keeps the conversation flowing.

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