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I am a rather introvert person, as many geeks are. This characteristics is particularly problematic in a technical conference. Geeks tends to just hang out with their gadgets, quietly at a corner. But the thing is, geeks as normal human being do want to talk and interact with others, they just don’t know how to start the conversation.

I would propose the following etiquette in all geeky (or otherwise) conferences.

1. When choosing a seat, always pick a seat that has people next to it. Try not to pick a seat that is empty on both sides. I know it sometimes feels awkward, but it is even more uncomfortable for other geek to choose a seat that has people seating on both (gasp..) sides.
2. If you somehow manage to be talking to someone, do watch out around you. There might be some other people trying to be friendly, but might not have the skill to intercept your conversation. Always welcome someone who seems to try to join the chat. What I saw in most cases is that, once this geek get into a nice conversation, they tends to “protect” and close it against outsider.
3. Ask questions about them, don’t just talk about yourself.
4. Include everyone in the conversation. You need to realize that there are more value in triad, or multi-way discussion instead of just talking between two people. You’re attending a conference, not a date.
5. If you happen to be in an unfortunate situation where someone just wouldn’t stop talking and you need to get out of there, just quickly excuse yourself and leave. Don’t pull a silly stunt like taking a fake phone call.

There you have it. Not too hard right?