• If you're together in the same place, you have something in common. If we can be aware that others also feel uncomfortable, we can think about what we can do to make them feel comfortable with us.
• Ask people how they know the host or how they got ...

At a party or conference where small talk with someone nearby becomes awkward:

• excuse yourself to get a drink/coffee.
• say “It’s nice talking to you, but I have to talk to someone before they leave.”
• if your conversation is on the phone, end it by saying, “...

• When someone gives us something, we feel obliged to repay them back. It’s for this reason that people are more likely to say “Yes” to your request when you first give them a small gift or perform a small favour (People will be nice if you’re nice to them).