LOL I usually find that "tactics" don't really work for me. Most of the girls I met can see right through em, causing them to backfire; unless they want to play along because they are gaming themselves.
The nickname thing is just too lame imo; and I feel that doing so after the first/second meeting sounds insincere and condescending. I guess it depends on the nature of the crowd; and the general mood/atmosphere of the gathering. I'd save nicknames for girls you are truly close and friendly with.
The way I see it, the easiest way to socialize (especially with the opposite sex) is to just be genuine, friendly, and polite. Things tend to flow naturally from there
I also find that holding back on the first/second/third gathering usually works; this gives me an air of mystery, and a chance to surprise people later on (that's the only "tactic" I'm guilty of using). I wouldn't over-do it to the point of appearing stuck-up/uninterested and distracted…
