What are some effective ways to overcome shyness in group settings?

One of the best ways to overcome shyness, is to simply be yourself. I know it sounds basic, but it is true. This goes for the individual who is shy, and those whom are already acclimated to an environment. Often times we find ourselves lacking confidence in situations and as a result, we behave in ways that we think others will respond to best - by liking us. Creating such a persona is dangerous because it gives others a false idea of who you are, and it forces you to always tailor your behavior to what you believe others want. By simply letting go, being yourself, being respectful and kind, others will see you for who you are and thus make you comfortable in your own skin. Shyness is the by-product of trying to be something you're not.

I've been taught that one gains confidence by trusting in one's self. The root word of confidence is confide. Learn to confide in yourself, trust in yourself. The byproduct of adopting this belief is that you appear and begin to feel more confident. This has dramatically changed my life as I've grown up shy for a major part of my life. It's not easy, but if it's something you want and you have a strong "why" you will achieve this goal.

Absolutely do your research. Think of questions you can ask to start a conversation. Take a sneaky look at attendee's LinkedIn and if they've recently posted something or commented on something, ask them about it. Be yourself. Everyone there is in the same situation as you, with people they are not as comfortable with as they are with loved ones. If you're REALLY uncomfortable with a group, strike up a conversation with one group member, let them know you're feeling shy and ask them to introduce you to anyone else they know.

It's really important to be aware of your surroundings, keep moving and take breaks. Before you get to the group setting, know where it is and roughly how many people are there. This should not be a surprise; then when you get to the group environment, know your exits, bathrooms and quiet spaces. It's okay to retreat and whisper some positive self talk, just bring it on back.

My background in acting has helped me here - it’s always about your scene partner, never about you. In life, shyness can creep up especially in new situations and around new people. Make it about the other - ask questions, be curious, get to know people and places you’re around. Focus on them!

Imagine your confident and social-self. Visualize how you would look, speak, and act in a social setting. You can ask yourself: -What would a confident 'you' say in this moment? -How would you stand? -What would your tone of voice sound like? -What would you be wearing? -How would you breathe, move, and walk? -This mental image you're visualizing is a part of you, and it is you. Instead of thinking 'I want to be this,' focus on 'feeling confident' or 'feeling social and cool.' When you shift your focus to feeling confident and follow the behaviors you have imagined, you will start to become this more confident and social person and by shifting your focus to the external world instead of your internal experiences.

Courage precedes confidence! First step to becoming truly confident, means you have to find the courage to step out of your comfort zone and take risks, over and over again.

Identify whom you want to speak to and really develop interest in them. Find out at least one thing to compliment about them and pick up a discussion with them on that single issue. Be prepared to discuss yourself if and when your partner asks questions about you. Be generous with compliments and genuinely ask to know how they achieved what you are complimenting. Allow the discussion to drift to a natural direction, as long as you are comfortable with it.