[Kali_Namir]

I'm not very good with new people either, so when I go to meet someone new or hang out with people I end up either clamming up or trying to be the center of attention. It's actually thanks to places like Tris that I've gotten better with small talk.

Usually the first thing that goes through my mind is that I need to make a good impression, then I need to do my best to not give away too much information. It's kind of like when you first join a forum site, sure most of the people you meet here may never know you IRL, but then again, they could. But approaching it in a kind of "Do I want everyone to know" way is a good way to handle it. Then if certain people are receptive to you and enjoy your company, that's when you delve a little deeper.

As for around your brother's friends, the worst thing for him would be if you recount all of his most embarrassing moments. It's actually a great ice breaker, but just make sure he's not too sore about it. When my little sister would bring her friends over, I would often get stuck 'baby sitting' and so it would end up with just me and her friend in the same room while my sister did something, so I ended up telling how when my sister was little she taught all the kids in the daycare to pee outside on the playground. (My sister is actually kind of proud of this now, she thinks it shows that 'even at an early age she was a leader'), but still it broke the ice with the friend. It's also a great lead into getting laughter started by having people tell other embarrassing moments.

I would say talk to your brother about it, see if he's okay with you throwing out a slightly embarrassing moment to break the ice with. If he is, then allow him to follow up with one about you, that gets the conversation started, and allows all the chips to be thrown out and people feel a little more comfortable.

But mostly, talk with your brother, ask his opinion on what you could do.

Also, if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm someone who will listen and try to offer some advice.