In the book Captivate, the science of succeeding with people, the author explain about how you should play to your strength. And play your position where you thrive. In the normal social setting for example a party, there are three area that you need to be focusing on.

The first area is Arrival area, in general you don’t want to start socialize in this area as people just arrive and start trying to find whether they know anyone, so they have very little attention to what you are takin about.

The second area is by the food, or outside the exit of the bar. This is generally the best place to socialize and start the conversation. People had settled in and ready to mingle. One thing to note, don’t talk with your mouth full. Next to the host or in their line of sight is also the best place, as they might introduce you to their guest.

The last area is the side line, bathroom, or next to the food, this is considered to be outcast area. This place is to be avoided, because usually people who hang around in this area is the one that no longer want to have any conversation.