How to Make New Friends and Meet People

Whether you're in a new town, new job, or just wanting to meet new people, this article can show you how.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patience and an open mind

1. 
    

   Try striking up conversation. For some of us, this isn't very easy. If you're in a new situation, a good way to strike up conversation is to gently and respectfully add to others' conversation. NEVER enter a conversation that is held in whispers/low voice, or if the subject matter is sensitive/private. Let's say, you're standing in line at the cafeteria check-out. You overhear someone talking about a show you enjoy. You could turn to them and say, "I'm sorry to butt in but I heard you talking about SNL this weekend. I thought that skit was hilarious too." You may not get an invitation to dinner but you've broken the ice and maybe the next time you talk, it'll be a longer, more meaningful conversation.

2. Throw a party! If the situation is appropriate and reasonable, you could have a Tupperware, Avon, art, dinner, or movie party to get to know people. You can even say in your invitation that you're trying to meet new people and _______ (have an excuse to buy Avon or check out the cinema in town).

3. If throwing a party isn't feasible, try looking for a group. It's the same concept how ever you do it. You are trying to put yourself in a group of people, so throwing a party or finding a group to mingle in will help you meet people. Look online and in local papers for book clubs, social groups, political groups, dance clubs and mixers that interest you.

4. Be yourself! There's no sense in starting a friendship with someone being fake. Sooner or later they will find out the real you and either like the real personality better or decide they don't like you at all. Being yourself upfront is the best way to go. It's a level of honesty that most will appreciate. The disclaimer is you should always be willing to compromise or improve on yourself for your own growth and developement. You don't have to compromise your convictions but let's say you smoke and your friends don't like the smell; it's just considerate to excuse yourself before lighting up. If you have been told you are judgemental or rude, take it as an opportunity to improve. Don't be fake, but consider the perception and think of what you can do to honestly improve.

Tips & Warnings

• My rule of thumb for making friends at work or in more sensitive envirnoments is to keep certain topics off the table. Stay away from politics, religion, and social issues. Think about a good friend or family member you're close to. You probably wouldn't stop talking to them if they didn't like the candidate you plan to vote for. However, a stranger can attach all sorts of negative characteristics to you based simply on your political views. Make friends FIRST then decide on what you can't deal with in a person.

[imsummertoo]

on 10/13/2009 lol That's a stock photo. I'm not in it.

[uniformgirl225]

on 10/5/2009 GIRL I LOVE YOUR HAIR

[iamageniuster]

on 10/20/2008 Great tips. 5 stars! Thanks for the great article.