Events with strangers are our #1 fear; #2 is public speaking. Most people would prefer to do anything rather than enter a room full of strangers. Yet, for business and social reasons, we are obliged to do so.

Some roadblocks:

• Mother’s dire warning: “Don’t talk to strangers”
• Procrastination (if I am to go I need to be prepared)
• Feeling self-conscious
• Risking rejection
• Misinterpretation

Some remedies:

• Redefine stranger (consider people friendly strangers, or friends you haven’t met yet)
• Practice a self-introduction (your 30-second introduction)
• Move from guest to host behavior (start meeting, introducing, and networking instead of waiting for someone else to take the lead)
• Take the chance
• Be clear about your message
• Know the benefits of your products and services, not just features