How to Survive a Party Where You Don't Know Anyone

You're seated next to two strangers at dinner. The easy way to kick off a conversation with either of them is to ask how they know the host. But here's the important part: Scott says you must really listen to their answer. Maybe they'll say, "We work together." Instead of just replying with, "Oh, okay," probe a little deeper. You could say, "That's great! So what's happening in the world of real estate these days?" or ask how long they've been in the field and how they got into it. Act genuinely interested, and you'll probably wind up having a fantastic conversation.