@ Find out everything you can about those who will be attending: Where are they from? What do they do? What are their interests? This is what you can talk to them about.

@ Wear something that people can talk about; anything that will draw attention and inspire people to approach you. What do you have that would be a good conversation starter?

@ Read a couple of mainstream newspapers just before the event so that you can use the headlines as icebreakers. The more conversation fuel you have, the easier it will be to get a conversation going.

@ Get there early: This gives you the opportunity to warm up slowly as the other guests gradually arrive.

@ Remember in detail the accomplishment you’re most proud of just before entering the room. The memory will flood your system with endorphins, which is an instant confidence booster.

@ Breathe! When feeling self-conscious, people often draw short, shallow breaths, which only make things worse. Focus on taking deep breaths, which have an instant calming and grounding effect.

@ Pretend that you’re the host of the party: it boosts your self-confidence because it makes the event your event. Better yet, volunteer to be on the greeting committee if you can.

@ Position yourself around the desert buffet: it makes for easy conversations, and when people eat, their endorphin levels rise, which puts them in a better mood.

@ Approach people standing alone: they’re probably feeling awkward and lonely and will be grateful to you for saving them from anonymity.

@ Compliment them on something they’re wearing, and then ask an open-ended question about it. It’s one of the most effective icebreakers around.