[xhedley]

Practice with colleagues. I find networking events impossible if I go by myself but fun if I go with someone from work. As far as specific books go - find something that fits your culture. Lots of people from the USA rate Dale Carnegie highly, but as a British person that approach doesn’t feel quite right. General interest psychology can be readable and enlightening. Thinking Fast and Slow. Emotional Intelligence. Maybe something on Mindfulness if you aren’t familiar with focussing on your own feelings and emotions.

[pryelluw]

You make a very important, and often overlooked point: Social skills vary from culture to culture. Make sure to research this from the context of your culture and location.