How to Interact and Connect With People

Meeting new people can be a challenge and finding ways to bond with them is even trickier. If you're shy in social situations, try these simple strategies to help connect with more people and become more comfortable and compelling as you interact.

Instructions

1. Look friendly and accessible. You may be uncomfortable because you have no one to talk to, but coping tactics like listening to music on headphones, reading a book or gazing distracted into the distance will keep people from approaching you. Meet strangers' eyes and smile.

2. Discover as much as you can about the guests if you're attending a party thrown by a friend or family member. Uncover points in your educational or family backgrounds, interests or lines of work that will enable you to connect with them.

3. Ask a lot of questions when you talk to new people and be an active listener. Think of additional questions after you hear the answer to the first. The other person will find you fascinating even if you're just listening to them talk. They may also be willing to connect with you on a deeper level if you're supportive, sympathetic, funny and offer good advice.

4. Point out shared interests as you interact with someone. For example, if an acquaintance mentions a beloved music artist, discuss the times you've seen the band in concert or compare your favorite tracks from the latest album.

5. Find a reason to talk again after you interact for the first time. If you had a great conversation with someone earlier about art, for example, discuss the possibility of seeing a new exhibit together at a local art museum.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid pushing your way into someone else's conversation or trying to connect too quickly when you interact with new people. You may appear over eager or needy and drive potential friends away.