You're in a new environment with new people and you have the opportunity to set the tone and make new relationships. What do you do?

I’m a natural leader. I can’t help myself. I don’t go out of my way to lead, it just happens. I’m outgoing and fairly assertive so it’s often a natural progression. Still, in that sort of environment I usually watch for a while and see how things work and who the existing leaders are. I would play it by ear at first and try to get to know a few people. I would be friendly and open but I wouldn’t start off trying to change things or drive the way things work.

I wouldn’t overthink it, if I were you. Go there with an open mind and an open heart, ready to meet new people and learn new things. Don’t try too hard, just go with the flow and let things happen naturally.

I was going to say what @jordym84 said….you don’t have to plan it out. Who knows what type of people will be there, trying to predict what your interactions will be and how you should act is silly. Just go with the flow. Be yourself, be outgoing and friendly and listen when people want to talk to you. I love opportunities to meet people where everyone is the “new person” at the same time. For example I started at a restaurant when it was just opening….we were all new and it was awesome. No one felt like they had seniority or was better than anyone else. Take advantage of the situation it doesn’t happen all the time.

I constantly meet new people in the club I belong to. I smile, stand tall, introduce myself, make some small talk, get to know them and tell a little about myself. if no one is mingling or crossing the room to meet others I certainly would not follow that lead, I would walk up to people and do as I described.

I’d just walk in and play it by ear.

Be yourself.

I had that opportunity last year when my marriage ended and I joined a single’s walking group. I was able to be more outgoing than usual and projected my funny, happy self as well as showing at times the stress I was under. I made many new friends rather quickly and was asked to be an assistant leader of the group after about 6 months. So I’m guess I’m saying, be yourself but you can also use the opportunity to be a slightly better version of yourself.

I’d just go there and have fun or enjoy myself. The day I over analyze something so much, means I should leave it out.

I have to agree with @Shippy. Your true personality will reveal itself eventually, so just enjoy yourself.

Be pleasant and friendly, and say hello to people. Once you have become a regular, be nice to someone who is new.

Don’t expect them all to be nice back, or to be friendly in return. Life doesn’t work that way. But some of them will, and you’ll be able to make friends!