Many people are intimidated by the idea of attending a party or a business function, especially if they are shy. This is a shame, because the ability to make interpersonal connections at social events is very important in the majority of all businesses.

In need of tips? I’ve put together some tips that can help you overcome your sense of shyness and social awkwardness at a social event, and improve your networking ability.

Dress the part: It may seem terribly unfair, but when people don’t know you very well, they will make snap judgments based on your appearance. They will look at the way you’re dressed and groomed, and the way you’re standing or sitting. After they have seen you for just a few seconds, they will decide whether or not they want to get to know you better.

People seem to be programmed to feel a bit uncomfortable when they meet someone who seems to be very different than they are; and they will usually feel more comfortable when they meet those who seem to be similar to themselves in a lot of ways.

You can increase the chances that new people will respond favorably when they meet you by dressing appropriately for the occasion.

That means, you should wear business attire when others are wearing business attire, and you should dress casually when others are dressed casually. Before a social event of any kind, it is a good idea to ask discretely what sort of clothing choices would be most appropriate.

Preparing for the social event: Before you get to the event, try a few strategies to prepare yourself. One way to increase your social confidence is to use the techniques of affirmation and visualization to convince yourself you are a lively, interesting person with a lot to say.

Take a few moments to picture yourself being at the party or social event. In your imagination, see yourself smiling, relaxed, and confident. Tell yourself you find it easier and easier to talk to other people. Tell yourself other people enjoy talking to you. Allow yourself to feel happy, confident, and excited while you enjoy seeing images of yourself talking to other people.

You can also increase your energy by putting on some lively music you enjoy and letting yourself dance to the music.

It can be very useful to prepare a few topics in advance so you will have something to talk about with the people you will soon meet. Scan the news for some interesting current events that can be used in a general conversation.

If the event you are going to attend is for business or professional people, take a few moments to look up some current events of the issues that are related to that field. Then, you will be better prepared to ask a few intelligent questions of the people you meet.

Creating a good impression: When you are at a social event and are being introduced to new people, be sure to shake their hands and make good eye contact with a smile. Repeat their name and use it several times during your conversation. Oh, and firm hand shake, please…

Stick to a few general topics until you both find a topic you find more interesting.

It’s best not to get too personal in your conversation topics with people you have just met. Use your first few minutes of small talk to find common ground for further conversation.

Remember most people love to talk about themselves, and their special interests, so use the technique of open ended questions to get the other person to tell you all about their favorite topics.

If liquor or food is being served at the event, pace yourself. Many people who suffer from being socially anxious have a tendency to drink too much at social events because they think alcohol will make them more sociable. Drinking alcohol to become more sociable can eventually create more problems than it solves. It’s better to be sober and learn “real” social skills.

Good body language is an important part of making a positive impression. Remember closed body language, where you hold your arms folded across your body will probably send out the message that you don’t want anyone to talk to you.

To encourage more people to approach you in conversation, keep your body language open, with your arms relaxed at your sides, and keep a gentle smile on your face.

Now… it is your turn to make these suggestions into actual habits. Surely you will increase the likelihood that you create a good impression on other people, plus you will create new social connections, and will “now” enjoy meeting new people in every social occasion.

Royane Real is the author of the popular special report "Your Guide to Making Friendly Conversation."