[nabs-l] socializing tips in crowds and meetings

[Sam Hogle]

Hi Ashley. I completely agree with what you're saying here. I'm a dog 
user, and because of that, I feel that this topic is even more 
important. For example, it never fails that a friendly dog will guide 
you in to a room and find you a chair, but not make sure it's an empty 
one. lol
Also, I agree with the whole issue of trying to break the ice with 
people. For the record, it's just a little aukward
when you're talking to someone without realizing they've walked away. I 
guess that's just something I've gotten used too. However, I agree it's 
good to have tips. After all, if you're at a social event where you're 
supposed to break off in to groups, it would be just a little 
embarrassing to turn to see if you can join a group only to discover 
you're talking to a wall and not a person. Anyway, I guess what I'm 
trying to say here is I am also in the club that could benefit from any 
tips, and I'm sure there are many more of us.
Sam
On 10/13/2011 7:40 PM, Ashley Bramlett wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I’ve not been the best at finding people and integrating into a crowd or going to a structured event and feeling comfortable. Once I know people, I’m okay. But breaking the ice is hard. I’m a cane user and I’ll find a spot to sit but may not know who is around.
>
> What are tips for getting to know people and finding who is there? I cannot see familiar faces. If its totally new, I don’t recognize voices. Do you just say something to a nearby person “hi, how are you? I am {your name} and its good to be here.”
> How do you deal with slides you cannot see? Do you contact them ahead of time for an alternative format?
>
> When I say structured activity, I mean something where people sit down in a room to hear a speaker, have small group discussions, or see an event.
> Some examples:
> 1. any club activity on campus
> 2. a religious activity such as bible study
> 3. a meeting in the community of similar interest people such as a writing club or toastmasters group.
> 4. a conference
>
> When you have a general crowd, its even harder to know what is happening or find people. Examples are at a game or pep rally or reception.
>
> I’m planning to join some groups soon such as a writer’s club and perhaps a bible study. I might join toastmasters because I like speaking and want to polish my speaking skills. And I’m heading to homecoming too. So I got to wondering tips and how others feel.
>
> Sometimes I don’t feel included. People might say Ashley, I’ll help you get some food and then proceed to describe it and serve me at the counter. But then after I’m seated they wander off.
>
> Thanks.
> Ashley
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