What are some guidelines or rules to go by before attending my next work-related social event?

Introduce yourself to people unfamiliar to you and when engaged in small talk, make eye contact and listen attentively. Use a firm handshake and try to circulate. Be careful not to have too much alcohol to drink.

Bring ten conversation questions with you on topics that might involve the masses, such as, “Did you see the baseball game last night? Or “We just returned from a vacation in Colorado. Have you ever been to Aspen? Success is created and good people skills move us up the ladder.