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How to be good at socializing. Being socialable is a very easy thing to do, and it shouldn’t be something you’re either good at or not.

How to be good at socializing

You can learn to become a more social person – if you want to. Generally extroverts will have less trouble getting out and talking to new people, but that’s to be expected. Don’t think, however, that outgoing people don’t make mistakes either. There are ways to make life easier while you’re out and about. To Do: Initiate conversation – A lot of people, while out, wait for other people to talk to them. It can be somewhat daunting at first because of fear of rejection or being shut down. Smile - If you look like you’re unhappy you’ll be less approachable. If you’re enjoying yourself, people will notice and want in on the action.

Acknowledge randoms – This can be as simple as a smile and a nod. One of my favorite things to do while out is make friends with random people. If you just came from work, for instance, loosen up. Then again, individuality goes a long way. The Don’ts: How to detect bullshit. By Scott Berkun, August 9, 2006 Everyone lies: it’s just a question of how, when and why.

How to detect bullshit

From the relationship saving “yes, you do look thin in those pants” to the improbable “your table will be ready in 5 minutes”, manipulating the truth is part of the human condition. Accept it now. I’m positive that given our irrational nature and difficultly accepting tough truths, we’re collectively better off with some of our deceptions. They buffer us from each other (and from ourselves), avoid unnecessary conflicts, and keep the wonderful confusion of our psychologies tucked away from those who don’t care.

But lies, serious lies, should not be encouraged as they destroy trust, the binding force in all relationships. Why people BS: a primer The first lie in the Western canon comes from the same joyful tome as the first murders, wars and plagues: the Old Testament. Please note that in this tale nearly everyone lied. People lie for three reasons; the first is to protect themselves. BS detection. How to exit a conversation. We’ve talked about making yourself more approachable and initiating conversation.

How to exit a conversation

Now, hopefully, you’ve gone and got yourselves into some conversations you wish you hadn’t. There are 3 reasons you might stay in a conversation that you want to leave: You’re too polite – Many of us feel like it’s rude to leave someone alone after talking to them for a few minutes. It isn’t. People have things to do, and talking is just talking. You’re afraid or lazy – Being in a conversation can be comforting and you might stick it out just because it’s easier than heading out on your own into the ‘unknown’. You don’t know what else to do – Similar to the previous, this is counting on your lack of imagination. There are plenty of situations that call for different kinds of exits. At times it can be somewhat enjoyable giving someone the short end and letting them know how little you think of them. Excuse yourself - A simple “Excuse me” will suffice.

It ain’t all business! Speaking of signals The fun way. How to become a master connector.