Showing up is essential for singles, whether they embrace their single status and intend to remain that way or they desire to meet that special someone. To show up means to get out there, try new things, meet new folks, and fully participate.
Some lament that the single life is lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. With 49% of the American adult population being unmarried, there are new groups and opportunities for singles springing up all the time. And while couples used to be norm, it’s common to find singles alone or with other singles at venues today. The Internet is a great way to find places to go and people to meet, but to show up you eventually have to get away from the computer and actually leave the house.
Once you arrive, there are lots of ways to participate. Standing in a corner is usually not the best. If you’re shy, you may want to go early and offer to help the organizer, perhaps at a registration table. Greeting people will take your mind off your discomfort while allowing you to meet everyone who walks in the room. If the group is well organized, joining a membership or welcoming committee is a perfect way to expand your singles network.
Another approach is to arrive about 25% of the way through the event, after people have had a chance to arrive, but not so late that they’ve started to leave. Then be sure to mingle and wear a name tag if one is offered. For tips on how to work the room, I love Susan RoAne’s How to Work a Room. Finally, as I’ve said before, it’s critical that you avoid hastily sizing up the crowd. To show up, you need to stay for a while and give it a chance. Remember, you have a lot to offer!