Do’s and Don’ts of Socializing

5- Join Group Conversations
It’s normal and expected for party guests to move between groups and mingle with new people. Most guests won’t mind if you join their group conversation, even if you don’t know anyone there. If you already know the group, approach them with a smile and say, “Can I give my opinion too?” Use interpersonal verbal skills to start a conversation.

Use unconscious signals to enter the conversation. Take a quick breath and make a hand gesture immediately after someone finishes talking. This signals that you’re about to speak and draws attention to you. If they’re playing a game, joining a group might be easier. Wait for a natural break like a new round of card play, then ask if you can join in.

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