Originally Posted by
MIRecovery 
I read a book a long time ago called a life time guide to conversation. The Cliff Notes version is people love to talk about themselves so let them. Come armed with 20 open ended questions that will work on just about anyone. Something like, "How did you meet the host of the party." Just keep you mouth shut and they will do the work for you. When they stop talking you can add a little something or ask them another question.
Works every time
I totally agree with this! I get massive feelings of anxiety when I know I'm going into any kind of social situation. I ask a lot of questions too. Even when the person I'm talking to is drunk and trying to have a somewhat slurred conversation with me, I stay with the same technique! I have no other social skills haha.