It is bad manners to sit and talk with only one guest. Make sure you have a supply of business cards with you, even if it purely a soical gathering. Last, but certainly not least, do not forget to thank you hosts as you leave. Follow up with a written thank you within 24 hours. There are three main types of business cocktail parties.
Members have the common interest in their community.
The benfit of this gathering is to obtain business leads and to advertise what you do for a living. Because people do business with those they know and like this is a great place to network. This is a good place to renew acquaintenances and meet guests. Focus on business but have fun, too. If this event includes a meal,the first rule to remember is to sit with people you don't know.