No one says making friends is easy but by following this simple guide you will expand your social circle in no time at all. Getting to know people is the first step.
Steps
Step 1. Keep the conversation going by physically listening and responding
Nod. Make appropriate expressions. You smile. Look at your new friends directly in the eyes.
Step 2. Ask questions that require explanatory answers
Don't put others in a position to just answer "yes" or "no". Instead of asking "Go somewhere this weekend" ask "Where are you going this weekend?" The person will respond with a location (e.g. the beach). And you will have something to talk about (the beach in fact).
Step 3. Don't forget to answer verbally as well
Show interest in what the other is saying. If your new friend is interested in something you know, like Shakespeare, ask for guidance. Why do you think he is so famous? What is your most famous work? What century did it live in? Convince yourself that you want to know and you will find yourself in a long conversation.
Step 4. Design activities that allow you to spend time together
Always staying in touch with others - by phone, email or in person - will make it clear that you enjoy their company.
Step 5. Find out about interest and opinions and be honest when expressing yours
This way others will get to know you and you will avoid false friendships.
Step 6. Keep their interest, tell the most curious things about your life and your family, what you like and don't like
Advice
- Offer to share something like cookies. Or a pencil during the assignment if they don't have it.
- People are attracted to those who seem to enjoy life so make an effort to be like that and don't forget to smile.
- If you've never talked to that person before, don't come up with a detailed conversation all at once. You can leave a positive impression of course, and many will wonder if you try. Intervening casually during another's speech is a better way.
Warnings
- Don't ask very personal questions right away or reveal information about yourself that might make the other person feel uncomfortable. If you feel comfortable, there will be plenty of time for that.
- Never, never say "Tell me about yourself" because you put the other person in the spotlight and may make him feel uncomfortable, unless the person loves the sound of his or her voice.
- Take the hints: if a person seems bored of you they will look in other directions to distance themselves, give short answers etc. Stop. Apologize and do something else.
- There are people you don't want to know. If you find that someone is not your thing, politely abandon the conversation.
