LPT – Play smooth jazz as background music for meal-based gatherings If you fear those awkward silences when everyone is eating, have some music on. But you don’t want music that’s going to evoke a strong reaction from anyone or that will be distracting. Smooth jazz is a nice compromise. It’s sophisticated but chill. People feel like they can still have a conversation. Remarkably few people complain about a song….

LPT Request: How to gracefully avoid post-work bar gatherings? I started a new job about a month ago, and while the job itself is fine and my coworkers are nice, I don’t want to hang out with them socially. All they tall about is work, which I’d rather not talk about off the clock, or God, which I’d rather not talk about at all. How can I get out of this without seeming like an antisocial asshole? To be cle…

LPT Is being outgoing and friendly a social gatherings worth it? I’m seeking advice on being more approachable and friendly at networking events. I’ve always felt insecure about how I’m perceived by others, worrying that I might not be “cool” enough. I have a three-day networking event in Nevada coming up, and I genuinely want to make meaningful connections. However, I question if it’s worth the effort since …