How to be Confident in a Roomful of Strangers

Some people are born with great self-confidence. They can walk into a room not knowing a soul and captivate the group with their witty conversation and winning smile. However, if you were not born with that kind of self-assurance, you are not destined to a life of awkwardness. The reality is that most people are uncertain of themselves. You can feel poised and sure of yourself, whether it is the first day of your new job, a party, or at the supermarket.

Instructions

1. Introduce yourself, rather than waiting for a mutual friend to introduce you. Look the person directly in the eye, smile geniunely and offer a firm, friendly handshake. Use the person's name shortly after learning it. They will immediately feel comfortable with and drawn to you. (This also helps you remember the person's name.)

2. Pay attention to your posture. If you stand or sit with your back straight rather than slouching, you will look much more confident. You will also be able to breathe better, helping you feel less nervous. Plus, being aware of your posture makes you feel in control and self-assured.

3. Think about a time--or several times--when you met new people and it turned out well. Recall your first day at a new school where you made many good friends, or when you changed departments at work and ended up in a management position. Remembering these positive instances of initially unnerving situations will boost your confidence.

4. Ask people about themselves. One thing that makes many people feel insecure when meeting new people is coming up with things to talk about. Turn the spotlight away from you and ask others what they do, whether they have kids and where they grew up. People inherently love talking about themselves. The best part is they will walk away thinking you are a brilliant conversationalist.

5. Fake it until you make it. This adage may be trite, but it is certainly true. Even if you do not feel the least bit confident, muster up your best acting skills and pretend you own the room. Before long, you will.

Tips & Warnings

• Know your topic. If you are speaking or presenting to a roomful of strangers, be intimately familiar with the topic at hand. Being able to answer any questions thrown at you and talk easily about the topic will give you an immediate air of confidence.

• Learn a few good, clean jokes by rote. Making people laugh will put you at ease.

Resources

• Clean Jokes