Do a little homework.
I strongly believe in being proactive in life. When you are out and about, look approachable. When you attend a professional event, think ahead of time about who will be there. What their likes and interests are can be helpful in getting a conversation started. When all else fails, people love to be able to talk about themselves! Imagine that you are able to ask a specific question, rather than a generic question, about that person! Your charisma will increase substantially.

Greet people appropriately.
First and most important, if two people are talking; do not insert yourself into the conversation. It may be private, and you would be seen as an interruption. It is best to join a group of people. (Remember, one is a loner, two a pair, and three or more a group.) Start by making eye contact, smiling, and nodding. When introducing yourself, the level of formality depends on the event. A wedding? Then a hug, or a kiss on the cheek of a friend or family member is appropriate. A networking meeting? No kissing! A firm handshake as you say your first and last name is best.

Remember and use people's names.
Most of us can't remember names because we aren't listening. Usually when someone is introducing themselves we are thinking about what we will say, or about how they look. People love it when you use their names, and nothing hurts your credibility more than asking someone barely five minutes later, "What did you say your name was again?" A tip: Slow down and pay attention. Then use the name twice after you've heard it. This will help you remember!

Share enough info to keep them interested.
As you begin a conversation, it is important that people feel you want to talk with them. When asked what you do, or where you work, have a sentence or two prepared that will make people want to know more. Don't just say, "I'm a receptionist." Say, "I am responsible for incoming communications, whether by phone, mail, or in-person for a 200-employee company." Don't just say, "I'm a coach." Say, "I teach people how to increase their revenue by getting more done in less time."

Draw them out so they will share with you.
Since people love to talk about themselves, find ways to get them talking. Ask about a piece of jewelry they are wearing, what brought them to this event, or a simple, "Tell me what's been going on." That will keep them talking so you can ask questions and learn more. When you show interest in them, they will want to know more about you!

Remember, two is a pair, and three is a crowd.
When you decide to mingle through a crowd, good etiquette states that you look for groups of three or more to enter and converse with. Also, be careful not to create pairs if you are there to meet people - remember what I said in point two above? Once you are paired up you send a "privacy" message! Invite a third person to join you so people know they are welcome!

Deal with unpleasant situations appropriately.
When you meet someone who continuously challenges your opinion, or seems to play the devil's advocate, best to handle it by simply saying, "I never thought of it that way," and move on! Don't be seen as "the person with the problem" because you took the bait and became argumentative. Listening is one of the most powerful gifts we can give another person, and sometimes it's more important to leave a positive impression than it is to be "right."

Understand silence.
First of all, don't feel anxious if there is a lull in the conversation. Sometimes people need a moment to process what has been said before moving on. Those silences are not as long as we think they are. Instead, think of the silence as a transition. Better to be silent for a few minutes than sounding like a babbling idiot!

Millionaires know how to network and talk small talk.
Research shows that networking is key to making more money, finding your dream job, and achieving more of what you want in life. Take time after meeting people to make notes about who you met, where they work, and why it would be beneficial for the two of you to stay in contact. Remember: When you realize that you need a network, if you have not already started to nurture one - it is too late.

Call, or better yet, send a thank-you note.
If someone did something special for you, or said "Call me, I have some info that would be helpful," do it! Thank- you cards are a great way to make sure you will be remembered for future opportunities. If you felt that a person could be a great strategic partner for you, call them! Your voice mail will make a bigger impact than any e-mail.