How to Get to Know Someone

Making friends is fun and important to our emotional health but sometimes it's hard to take the first step in getting to know someone. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to introduce yourself to another person and set the stage for a conversation. Work on your social skills and you'll soon have a long list of friends.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Pay attention to the other person's name and use it occasionally during the conversation. Often, when introduced to a new person, we listen to our own name and promptly forget theirs. Make it a point to remember the other person's name and they will be flattered.
2. Keep the conversation neutral. If you're really want to get to know someone, don't make a crude pass at them. That's the quickest way to send them running in the other direction and it makes you look like a chump. If you want someone to like you, be likable.
3. Tell the truth. If the person you are talking to becomes a close friend, they will eventually find out if you lied about your grandmother being an heiress that plans to leave you her entire estate. Remember that real friends like you for who you are. Start with honesty and you'll develop a trusting friendship.
4. Listen to the other person instead of hogging the entire conversation. Others quickly tire of hearing your endless stories about what a good water-skier you are or how you scored better than anyone else did on the real estate exam. Question the other person about their accomplishments and don't share yours until asked.
5. Find common interests and explore them further. Opposites might attract but when you share a hobby or an interest, it forms a bond. Ask the other person what kind of books and music they like.
6. Drop the hint that you would like to see the other person again and watch closely for their reaction. If they are open to the idea, plan to meet on common ground, such as a library, art gallery or at the rodeo. If the other party isn't interested, move along.
7. Get out and socialize more in order to meet and get to know someone. You can't make friends sitting on the sofa by yourself. The more people you meet, the better your chances will be for making new friends.