How to Socialize at a High School Reunion

Many people react with fear and dread when faced with the prospect of attending their high school reunion, particularly if those years trigger unpleasant memories. Luckily, you're not alone. With a few practical tips, you will soon find yourself socializing at your high school reunion with ease.

Instructions

1. Dress your best. Reunions can be festive occasions but everyone feel self-conscious about their appearance and social status. Looking good will inspire you to feel confident, which helps you socialize more freely.

2. Hang out at the food and drink table. Introduce yourself as people come by to load up their plates. This is usually a high-traffic area and you can use the buffet spread as the springboard to a conversation.

3. Partner up with anyone that you recognize and work the room together. It helps to have a buddy to pick up the slack in case a conversation goes stale. The other person could also help re-introduce you to people you don't remember.

4. Ask open-ended questions. Keep the conversation simple by asking the usual questions about their profession and their families--most people are eager to share their life story. Try not to judge the responses and be sincere in your praise for any successes.

5. Admit to not knowing someone's name. Time has passed and people have undoubtedly changed in appearance. Even if everyone at the reunion is wearing nametags, don't be afraid to ask for a refresher as to who they are.

6. Leave your old self at home. You will notice that many people fall back into their original high school cliques once the reunion gets in full swing. As tempting as it is to join in on the gossip, this is your chance to prove that you really have grown up and moved on.