🧨 Top 8 Mistakes People Make at Social Events (And How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)
😅 Let’s face it — social events can feel a bit intimidating.
Whether it’s a casual social mixer or a professional networking night, most of us worry about what to say, what to wear, or whether we’ll just end up standing alone awkwardly in the corner.
And guess what? Even the most confident people make avoidable mistakes.
If you're in your 20s or 30s and looking to meet new people in Ottawa, Toronto, or Montreal, this guide is for you. These are the top mistakes people make at social events — and exactly how to avoid them.
🚫 Mistake #1: Only Sticking With the Friend You Came With
Why it’s a problem: You end up talking only to each other and miss out on meeting new people — which defeats the whole purpose.
How to fix it:
Challenge yourself to split up for at least 20–30 minutes. Then regroup and introduce each other to new people you met. It makes things easier for both of you!
🧍♂️ Mistake #2: Hovering in the Corner Waiting for Someone to Talk to You
Why it happens: Social anxiety is real. But standing still hoping someone will rescue you rarely works.
How to fix it:
Take one small step — walk up to someone and say:
“Hey! Is this your first time here?”
It’s low-pressure, and most people are grateful someone started the convo.
📱 Mistake #3: Glued to Your Phone
Why it’s a bad look: Even if you’re just checking your messages, it signals to everyone: “I’m not available to talk.”
How to fix it:
Put your phone away and make eye contact with people. You’ll be surprised how many people open up with just a smile or a nod.
😐 Mistake #4: Forgetting to Smile or Look Approachable
Let’s be honest: Resting serious face makes you look unapproachable — even if you’re friendly on the inside.
How to fix it:
Be aware of your body language. Smile as you enter, and face toward open groups. People gravitate toward warmth.
🎤 Mistake #5: Talking Only About Work
Why it doesn’t work: You’ll blend into the background. Social events aren’t meant to be LinkedIn interviews.
How to fix it:
Ask fun, open-ended questions:
“What’s your go-to weekend plan?”
“What’s the best food spot you’ve discovered in the city?”
😬 Mistake #6: Waiting Too Long to Join a Conversation
You see a group talking. You want to join. You wait. Now it’s too late.
How to fix it:
Step in with confidence and ask:
“Hey! Mind if I join you guys?”
Or stand nearby and respond to something in the conversation naturally. Most groups are happy to include others.
😳 Mistake #7: Cringe Pickup Lines or Oversharing
We get it — you’re trying to be funny or relatable. But it can quickly make people uncomfortable.
How to fix it:
Keep it light, respectful, and authentic. Ask questions, share stories — but read the room.
🙃 Mistake #8: Not Following Up
You met cool people… and then never spoke again.
It happens all the time — but doesn’t have to.
How to fix it:
Before the night ends, say:
“It was great chatting — are you on Instagram/LinkedIn?”
Then follow up with a simple message the next day. That’s how real friendships and connections are built.
✅ Final Thoughts
Attending social events can feel awkward at first — but avoiding these common mistakes will make a huge difference. You’ll walk in with more confidence, meet more people, and have way more fun.
🎉 Ready to Practice These Tips?
We’re hosting social mixer events across Ottawa, Toronto, and Montreal — designed for people in their 20s–30s who want to meet new friends, mingle, and connect (without the awkward vibes).
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