Socially Shit

[OldSpeclkledHen]

Why am I so freaking socially shit?

I've just got home from work retirement party, it was like an old reunion. Lots of people I've worked with past and present.

Nearly everyone just went "Hi Speckled" and I just went "Hi, how are you?" back ... then they answered and moved on. But we have shared history!

How do people talk to people? I'm so shit at being sociable and making small talk conversation... it's really getting me down.

Glad I'm home now and in my pjs.

I'm the same OP. I hate things like that. I've learned to fake a bit though. Next time instead of saying hi back, ask them a question.

Them asking you how you are is just an opener....it's their ticket in for a conversation.

So you're meant to offer something a bit more. Good questions might be
Oh I'm fine thanks....are you still in X department?" or "Oh I'm good thank you....wow I love that dress! Where's it from?"

I don't know the answer as I have the same problem. I've often been having a conversation with someone and they have cut me dead when someone else has appeared!

So I know how you feel and maybe someone with better social skills can give some tips. I am generally friendly and like conversation rather than small talk but there are a lot of rude people about who have no idea how to converse or be polite.