Tips for Making New Friends

Everyone wants to make new friends. Finding new friends to socialise with isn’t as hard as it seems.

Once you start socialising, or chirsping as some people call it, you’ll find making new friends comes naturally.

Don’t forget that the friend you’re going to make is going to start off a stranger, so it’s key you be yourself and are open to making new friends.

In order to meet new friends, you have to find them. So, you need to get out there. Whether it’s at the local student union, at a trendy bar or a community function; once you get into a social situation you’re half way there.

Once you’re there, start talking. Be polite and make conversation - as though you're dating a stranger for them to become a good friend!

Dress smart, act smart

Dress relatively formally. Don’t turn up in jeans and a hoody, as otherwise people may think you’re walking about with an ASBO. You're not about to attract friends looking like you're off Shameless! Looking approachable is key. If you’re covered in make up, dressed inappropriately for the occasion or look like you’re already drunk, you’re not about to make any new friends.

Body language and conversation

Make sure you’re body language is approachable and accepting. Don’t be closed off with folded arms or by turning your back to people. Make sure you smile, don’t act miserable and maintain eye contact.

More importantly, make sure you listen! Everyone likes to be heard. So make sure your new friends feel appreciated by listening to what they have to say. Make sure you interact with the person talking to you so you don’t look like you’re mindlessly just taking things in one ear and pushing it out of the other.

You’ll have to be proactive to make new friends. By just sitting there with a frown won’t make yourself any new friends. If you make the first step, people will be receptive to you and feel that you’re more approachable.

You should also try and show people that you can be responsible, reliable and ultimately trusted.

Talk about roles at work, how you’ve helped other people before, or even your grandma.

All of those topics will assure new friends that you’re considerate and compassionate.

Old friends

Finally, make sure you don’t leave out other friends. Whether it’s on Facebook, by MSN, phone or email – keeping in touch with long-term friends will ensure they don’t feel left out.

You never know, as your social circle expands, your old friends may become friends with your new friends.