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Tags: self improvement, techniques, schmooze
 Let's say you're invited to a party, a shindig or a fete to some of the most-happenin' event in the city. There, you get to meet some of the hottest bigwigs, celebs, big shot, the influential, the rich, famous or the beautiful (or all of the above) come together in one glorious evening.
So what do you do--you know want more out of life and you've got lofty dreams far beyond the one you're living right now.
Well, since you're lucky enough to be handed that invite, it's time to mingle and rub elbows with the high and the mighty--schmooze sans the fakeness; aside from looking smokingly hot and fab! This is your time to connect and build some rapport to get their trust..and the rest is up to you.
But first step: learn the fine art how to schmooze.
The world doesn't revolve around you--yes, it's not just about you.
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How to schmooze the right way is not about hogging the limelight and attention. Make the person feel as if he's the most important thing...well at least right now, that is. Stop talking about yourself, but address more to the person. Start with a smile, then follow up with a short and sweet compliment--it always works when it comes to schmoozing. Examples are, "I like your outfit!" Or, "I've always been a fan of your work." Compliments like these build initial rapport.
Ask questions about them. People want to talk about themselves and you will give a favorable impression on them when it comes to schmooze encounters. If you're chatting to a boss or senior executive, try to branch out topics aside from work.
You can try talking about their children, vacation plans etc.
Before coming to the event, have your schmooze plan of action. Prepare some topics to discuss in a light-hearted way. How about the latest with pop culture these days? Even those tiny things you know you can contribute--like the latest restaurant openings, movies etc. Of course, not to mention the celeb gossips, reality tv, American Idol etc. But keep in mind also your crowd. To be safe, steer clear from topics of religion, race, politics--you don't want to ignite a debate.
But what if you don't like the person? Learn to schmooze the graceful exit. Okay, unexpected occurrences like this one, be prepared. If you're trapped with someone obnoxious, just smile and be polite; always the classy one. Okay, just give it 5 minutes, like how great the food is, how he met the host/hostess and even anything about the weather. After approximately 5 minutes, execute your graceful exit. Say something like, "Okay, twas nice talking to you...now I think I got to get a drink/get a dessert/go to the restroom/look for my friend.
Most importantly, remember to have a good time and try to be more positive. Don't force it if you're too nervous, or else you may say something stupid or reveal too much unnecessary info. Body language is a trick you have to practice and master especially when it comes to being a schmooze operator.
About the author
The author of this article, Amy Twain, is a Self Improvement Coach who has been successfully coaching and guiding clients for many years. Let Amy show you the advantage of being In Control of your Actions. Grab a copy of her eBook and Be an Expert in the Science of Body Language.
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