Learning to Make Small Talk

In his post for Inc., author Jeff Haden received some great advice for dealing with his shyness. When attending a conference, he found himself uncomfortable in a room full of strangers. After another participant seemed to effortlessly strike up conversations, he asked what his trick was. His response:

"Look around the room. Pick someone who looks uncomfortable. Pick someone who seems to feel out of place. Pick someone just like you.

"Then go talk to them. Make it your goal to make that one person feel more comfortable. Then you'll feel more comfortable too."

Don't worry, there's always someone who feels shy at tournaments. It's great practice for life after high school or college when you're forced to enter "the real world."