Do’s and Don’ts of Socializing

4- Listen to Others
When you’re nervous, it’s easy to overlook yourself when someone is talking to you. People often do this when they’re anxious and thinking about what to say next. However, talking to a stranger and actually conversing will be easier if you genuinely listen to what they’re saying. According to Turnbull, the best way to listen and show you’re listening is to make eye contact with the person talking, lean in slightly to show they have your full attention. Let them say everything they want without interruption, then ask a follow-up question that shows you’ve truly heard them and are interested in hearing more.

Disclaimer: The isolation of the pandemic gave many of us a newfound appreciation for simple forms of socialization, like getting together at a friend’s home. Although we might be more freely attending house parties, potluck dinners and casual living room gatherings to watch sports on the couch, that doesn’t give people free rein to behave however they’d like in someone else’s space. We asked etiquette experts to share some common rude behaviors when visiting someone else’s home ― and advice for avoiding them.

February 9, 2025 | 4:41 am