Social Tips for Parties

At Video on the Net, we held a few parties at the Network2 lounge. Things to do at the party besides enjoy a beverage and snacks included a professional poker dealer, grand piano, Guitar Hero, Dance Dance Revolution, Gears of War, whatever the Playstation 3 offroad racing game was, and of course, chatting with folks. It was a great place to be social. I learned, however, that there are a few tips for how you might navigate smoothly.

Make introductions early

Make sure you get your name out and try your best to get other people’s names early in the night. Otherwise, as the party goes on, you get more and more awkward when having multiple interactions with someone whose name you don’t know, but who you’re talking with quite a lot. It’s okay to say, “I’m really bad with names. I’m Chris. Your name was?”

Be respectful of people’s time

At a PARTY, the plan is to be social, to get a chance to unwind with others, and to meet the folks around you. If you’ve got someone backed into a corner for a long discussion, it means that neither of you are meeting other folks. Sure, you might find an affinity that carries you forward, but it’s up to you to determine of both of you are enjoying the conversation so much to skip meeting others.

It’s a party, not a business transaction

Some parties are the kind where business can happen, but do your best to determine if this is one of those parties. For the most part, people don’t want to talk business at a party. It’s okay to exchange business cards for future conversations, but leave it at that, okay?

Save your past-grudge-clearings for another time

Its fascinating how someone might conceive that a party (especially when addressing the host) is a time to attempt clearance and closure on past issues. Save gripes and arguments for private moments instead of in a room full of hundreds of revelers. It’s just not a good time.

Know when to scram

We were fortunate to have thoughtful guests, and on top of it, our party ran technically as long as humans were in numbers worth calling it a party. But in some cases, there’s a time when the hosts will want you to hit the road. Look for signs like changes in lighting, music turning off, and someone waving a big butcher knife. Any of these might give you the sign.

Have fun and dig in!

Parties are meant to really enjoy. Find your comfort zone, maybe stretch just a hair past it, and have yourself a great time. Throw yourself into the event as best as you can, and really play along with the experiences to be had. Otherwise, you’ll miss all the fun there is to have.

We were fortunate to have a great time at the Network2 Lounge. Folks were wonderful for the most part. The music and the games and the poker and the refreshments were plentiful. It was a great time. If we hung out together there, great. And if not, maybe at our next party.

Next Network2 Party in New York City: March 27th

March 27th: Proof Bar & Lounge in NYC
239 3rd Avenue
5:30PM- 9(ish)

Can you make it?