smile always
whe someone offers you their hand, give them a firm and warm handshake, while maintaining eye contact and smiling.
always have your own opinion on things and read up more of the news, you'll never be lost for words in this way..
be comical... don't be afraid to be the centre of attention and instead, embrace the limelight, crack a few silly jokes to get the people around you laughing
its worked for me... all the best