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The CEO of the company I work for is hosting a dinner party and invited me "and my significant other". I don't have a significant other so I implied in my response that it's just me, myself, and I going there. I'm relatively new to the company so I don't know anyone on a personal level. I'm a naturally introverted (read: shy and reserved) person around large groups and highly prefer smaller group settings (like 1 or 2 other people). But I forced myself to go to this because I'm new to the company and I want to make a good impression. I don't want to be labeled as that anti-social person who doesn't ever show up to any social events like my previous jobs. I want to try to change that.
All of my interests/hobbies revolve around things that are too controversial to talk about around coworkers (like politics and spirituality for example). So it makes it really awkward for me to try to contribute to convos people are having at a party. I try to chime in with a sentence or two once in a while just so I don't look like an idiot sitting there the whole time. I know about the usual "ask people questions" tip but I never know what to ask people. I think part of it is that my brain freezes up in these situations.
I know that when I walk in I will be super nervous and have to say hi to like 50 people at once. So my questions are:
1) How do I deal with the single aspect at a dinner party?
2) How does an introvert handle him/herself at a dinner party?
3) How do I come up with good questions/topics for people there?
Aren't there things you want to know about them?? Aren't you naturally curious about where they grew up, what their families are like, what the do outside of work, etc?
And also, don't think that you necessarily have to be the life of the party. As long as you smile, enjoy and compliment the food and drink and look happy you will already make a good impression. Make sure to compliment the appearance of your boss's wife if she is there. Have a conversation with at least two people and you have done well. The post above gave you good suggestions about conversation starters. A lot of people like to talk about their kds or pets
I just googled "good questions to ask at a work dinner party" and loads of answers came up. I recommend you do the same & maybe pick out the best and use those.
A lot of people love talking about themselves. You just have to find the right topic. Good luck
Drink a bit of alcohol right when you get there, and you should be fine.
I'd skip this. Too much alcohol and you could do something you regret and it could be a career limiting move.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Wmsn4Life
Aren't there things you want to know about them?? Aren't you naturally curious about where they grew up, what their families are like, what the do outside of work, etc?
You should ask about what you're wondering about.
I would do this. Just inquire about others' lives and keep quiet about your own. That can get you through one night.
Plenty of people end up going to functions on their own. Since you're not in a relationship, you don't need the distraction of a date you hardly know.
Do the basics, introduce yourself to each person you meet, smile, nod, firm but not crushing handshake. Ask the strangers what department they're in, or how long they've been with the company. Be a good listener and respond to their questions to you in a few basic phrases. Afterwards tell them it was nice meeting them and that you look forward to seeing them again, and move on.
Plenty of people end up going to functions on their own. Since you're not in a relationship, you don't need the distraction of a date you hardly know.
Do the basics, introduce yourself to each person you meet, smile, nod, firm but not crushing handshake. Ask the strangers what department they're in, or how long they've been with the company. Be a good listener and respond to their questions to you in a few basic phrases. Afterwards tell them it was nice meeting them and that you look forward to seeing them again, and move on.
Maintain positive body language and don't fidget.
Network, network!
This poster is right...and stick to job related topics...I would not ask a bunch of random personal questions, you are the newbie.
This is your chance to discuss your special job related talents if you're asked.
Seriously, I think going alone is best, this is your debut, "your first impression" if you will. Why risk someone else mucking it up.
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