Facial expressions can be contagious. People tend to unconsciously imitate the facial expressions of people they are interacting with. If you smile, there is a good chance the other person will smile back. The act of smiling can also affect your mood and help you feel happier. A mutual smile can help boost both of your moods and get things off on the right foot. [2] X Research source
You might say “Hi, my name is Henry Locklear. I’m a junior. What’s your name?” You might want to shake their hand, especially if you are in a professional setting.
You might also ask something like, “Can you let me borrow a piece of paper?” if you have a class with them.
If you’re lucky, they may begin to rely on you when they have questions as well, and then you can spark up more conversations. Always listen more than you speak. Try to show your interest in the other person to really break the ice and keep the conversation going. [7] X Expert Source Lynda JeanCertified Image Consultant Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.
Don’t compliment them too often, however. Once to twice per week is a good amount.
Another technique to help make friends is “mirroring”. This involves mimicking whatever posture or expression that the person you’re speaking to is doing. For instance, if they are leaning their head slightly left, you could do the same while talking to them.
Breathe deeply before you talk to them. Deep breaths help calm you down.
You might say something like “You seem so fun! Can I have your number so I can text you?”
For instance, you might ask where they live, if they have siblings, their favorite movie, favorite book, etc. Also, if you two have a mutual friend, try asking how they met or what brought them to the group, for example. [13] X Expert Source Lynda JeanCertified Image Consultant Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.
For instance, you might ask something like “What’s your favorite childhood memory?” or “What’s your relationship like with your mom?”
Also, you can answer your own questions. For instance, if you have asked them something like “What do you want to do when you grow up?”, you can also answer that question for them after they have had time to answer you.
Find out what kind of food, movies, books, and hobbies they like. Learning about someone else’s interests, even if they are different from your own, is a great way to help foster a friendship and expand your own horizons. Let them teach you something about their interests and hobbies.
Remember that if someone wants to talk to you, you won’t have to initiate contact all of the time and they won’t ignore your texts or phone calls. They will be happy to see you and excited about this new friendship.
Make sure not to be the only one initiating contact. If you find that nine times out of ten, you’re the one reaching out first, give your friend some space to breathe. If they reach out first, it will make your friendship stronger and more mutual.
Group outings are fun, but remember that you will be able to deepen your relationship more if it’s just the two of you hanging out.
Bond over cooking a new dish together or trying out a new sport. You can also conquer a mutual fear like a fear of heights together by riding a rollercoaster or something similar.
