How to Behave at Social Events: A Survival Guide for 20s–30s

Whether you're attending a paint night, cocktail mixer, or bubble tea social, knowing how to behave at social events can make all the difference between an awkward evening and a night full of connections.

At National Social Networking Group, we’ve hosted hundreds of events for people in their 20s and 30s across Canada. We know what works—and what doesn’t. Here’s your guide to navigating your next event with confidence, charm, and ease.

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✅ 1. Be Approachable (Even Before You Speak)

First impressions happen fast—sometimes before you even open your mouth.

Do:

• Smile genuinely (not forced, not creepy)

• Maintain relaxed, open body language

• Keep your phone in your pocket (not your hand)

• Make casual eye contact with people around you

Don’t:

• Cross your arms or look bored

• Stare at your phone the entire time

• Hover awkwardly without joining a group

Pro tip: Arrive early when groups are still forming. It’s easier to strike up conversations before social clusters form.

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💬 2. Start Conversations (Even If You’re Shy)

You don’t need to be the life of the party—just willing to talk.

Conversation Starters:

• “Hey, is this your first event too?”

• “Which drink did you get? I’m deciding…”

• “What made you come out tonight?”

• “Have you done a paint night before?”

Conversation Tips:

• Ask open-ended questions

• Give a little of yourself too

• Don’t worry about being perfect—just be curious

Avoid interview-style questions. Keep it light, like chatting with a friend-of-a-friend.

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🙅‍♂️ 3. Don’t Dominate or Overshare

People want to connect, not be cornered.

Avoid:

• Talking too much about yourself

• Going deep into personal drama

• Being negative or complaining (about the event, people, city, etc.)

• One-upping others’ stories

Keep it balanced: share, listen, respond. The best socializers ask more than they talk.

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🧍‍♀️ 4. Use Positive Body Language

Sometimes it’s not what you say—it’s how you carry yourself.

Positive Signals:

• Nod while others are speaking

• Keep your arms relaxed by your sides

• Mirror people subtly (e.g., posture or tone)

Red Flags:

• Constant fidgeting

• Looking over someone’s shoulder mid-convo

• Standing too close or too far away

Respect personal space—but don’t isolate yourself either.

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🥂 5. Know Your Boundaries (And Respect Theirs)

Yes, many social events include drinks or flirting. But boundaries matter.

Drink Etiquette:

• Know your limit. Don’t get sloppy.

• Don’t pressure others to drink

• Eat something before drinking at mixers

Flirting Etiquette:

• Keep it friendly, not forward

• If someone pulls back, respect the signal

• Don’t keep pushing for attention—move on gracefully

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🎨 6. Lean Into the Activity

At our events (paint nights, game nights, icebreakers), you’ve got a built-in topic. Use it!

• “What color are you going with for that part?”

• “I messed up my drawing—yours looks awesome!”

• “Did you pick this event or just tag along?”

Activities are the best natural icebreakers—use them to your advantage.

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🚫 7. Top 5 Social Event Mistakes to Avoid

1. Only talking to who you came with

2. Waiting for people to approach you

3. Judging others’ outfits, appearance, or behavior

4. Being on your phone during conversations

5. Drinking too much too fast

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💡 Final Thought: You Don’t Need to Be Perfect—Just Present

Most people at social events feel a little awkward at first. That’s normal. The key is being present, respectful, and open to conversation. You don’t have to impress—just be interested.

Remember: everyone’s there to connect, just like you.

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🎟️ Want to practice your social skills in a welcoming, judgment-free environment?
Check out our upcoming events at NationalSocialNetworking.com — paint nights, mixers, and chill friend-making events across Ottawa, Toronto, and Montreal.