[byandyphillips]

Oh wow this sounds like me — here's what I do and my 2 cents:

PLAN 1) Before the event, think of interesting questions and topics you can talk about

2) Remember as much as you can to let the person know you were listening and engaged

DURING 1) Listen more than you talk - ask the other person about their interests and hobbies (bonus if it's interesting to you too)

2) Don't try to be someone you're not - being your authentic / weird / quirky / self is better than trying to act like someone you're not

3) Admit that you're an introvert (assuming you are like me) - then people will be more accepting if you're more quiet than everyone else.

Good luck!