Handling Mixers with Confidence!

You’re ready to chat folks up. Where to begin?

Prepare. Think about whom you want to meet and what industries you are interested in. Read the paper or trade journals, and know what’s going on for people you will likely talk to. Be ready to show insight and interest.
Stay away from controversial topics like politics and religion. Never put anyone on the defensive.
Conventional wisdom says to talk about the weather and sports. If those topics bore you, ask for recommendations for places to eat or visit.
Draw the other person out. Ask about the venue, how one knows the host, how one got involved with the event, etc. Do NOT do all the talking.
Your body language must be positive. Smile, make eye contact, and carry yourself confidently (shoulders back, head high, take up space!). If you are overwhelmed when you walk into a room, you can first stop to admire the venue or artwork, or just pause with a drink in hand to survey the scene with a smile before jumping in.