You say when people get to know you that you are able to open up with them?
So what puts you at your ease?
Is it a gesture, something other people say, a vibe they give off....
Now. Once you have worked out what it is that puts you at ease, then try this and see how it works for you.
Assume that the people you are speaking to are even more shy that yourself. (Even if they are being loud, assume they are just covering up their shyness!) Now be the person to put them at their ease. Think about how you can make this person feel comfortable and reassured that it's ok for them to open up.
It takes all the pressure of 'what to say to be interesting etc' and very quickly creates rapport between you.
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