I'm not good at mingling and my awkwardness is not at all cute or sexy. But I know how to get through a party with an overall okay time i.e. don't become emotionally dependent on anyone I meet for the first time.

So here are some tricks I shall divulge to you that you can also try:

1. One-liner.

When meeting strangers, prepare that one-liner that will get people laughing. (Even if it is polite laughter.) For example, "Despite the cost of living, have you noticed how it remains so popular?"

Better to be remembered for that one thing than to be completely forgotten, right?

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2. Eye contact.

When in a conversation and unable to relate to the people, just look them straight in the eye and nod.

This gives the impression that you understand and encourage the person to go on without you having to contribute anything.

Or until he/ she walks away.

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3. Enjoy the little things.

Yay, pizza!... Ooh it's spicy, is that paprika? Wait nonsense, paprika isn't Italian... Ooh I love this song... It's been so long since I last heard it... May sound crazy but it ain't no lie, baby bye bye bye... bye bye! Whoa it's 9 o'clock already, time has passed.

4. Get busy.

Make yourself useful by moving the chairs or something.

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5. Script.

I always predict conversations and go through them in my head before going for a party. It's possible because the topics for small talk are limited and pretty predictable.

Although people always deviate from my script, at least I feel prepared as I walk into the intimidating room of strangers.

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6. Find your flock.

Or maybe just another bird of your feather will do. That like-minded introvert whom you can talk with and stick to throughout the evening.

7. Be yourself.

I risk sounding cheesy to say this because it's important. Don't put up with things you disagree with and be not afraid to speak up and let your character shine. See, experts agree:

"Groups famously follow the opinions of the most dominant or charismatic person in the room. Even though there is zero correlation between being the best talker and having the best ideas"

- Susan Cain, The Power of Introverts

8. Escape plan.

You have probably heard of this one before; introverts always plan their escape.

To get you started, here are some of mine:

"I've got to get home to feed my dog his supper."

"My friend just broke up with her boyfriend, she needs me now."

"I need to put my grandma to bed."

"I need to go back to catch Mata Mata." / "You can watch it on xinmsn." / "It's not the same!"

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Top photo from Flickr

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