Etiquette Tips/Cocktail Conversation
- Listen before jumping into a conversation. You may not want to enter into the conversation until you know what’s being discussed.
- Make eye contact with one person in the group, smile and listen until they include you.
- Introduce yourself when there is a pause in the conversation.
- To initiate a conversation, you can talk about the situation, talk about yourself, or talk about the other person.
- Avoid taboo topics:
- Inappropriate jokes
- Health problems
- Diets
- Personal finances
- Controversial topics like politics or religion
- Asking for free advice from professionals
- Spouses as authorities
- Don’t hide in a corner; circulate. Spend five to seven minutes with each person or group.
- Always remember to close a conversation. Shake hands, smile and move on.