Man is a social being and it is simply not in his nature to go through life alone. As much as we like solitude, at some point, we will want to share our thoughts with someone or at least keep quiet together. However, in this new era in which we live, loneliness is the number one problem for the majority of the population. We spend many hours at work, plus the time we lose in transportation, crowds, queues… When we get home we just don’t have the energy to go out, take a walk or do any other activity but rest. And so day by day we become more lonely and the circle of friends is unfortunately narrower.
Still, there is a way to find a friend even though you are still in your comfortable armchairs and warm homes. Today, all life hacks you could find on the Internet, so it is just a great place for fun and dating. True, as in real life, there are various pitfalls when it comes to interpersonal relationships, but with enough information and the use of the right channels, this is a great place to hang out. Whether you are a student and want to meet someone from your college, a poet looking for understanding or perhaps looking for a partner, the internet and social media can be a great place to do so. Some sites like meetville.com connect single people and help them fulfill their life.
However, most people still have prejudices or simply feel comfortable starting a conversation with someone. Based on this, in the text below we offer you ideas on how to meet new people online without being awkward.
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Being in the right place at the right time
In order to even think about how to start a conversation, we must first find future friends. Look for them in the right places. The most popular places to look for friends online are social networks; online student groups; online courses and training; online games; dating applications; online support pears. So the choice of place is really big and it is up to you, according to your interests, to decide where to start. Make a small selection of people who have similar interests as you and get ready to start a new friendship.
Start by commenting on the post
Perhaps the simplest way to start a conversation is to comment on someone’s post. This is especially true when we talk about social networks. People are attracted to like-minded people and support, so if you notice a comment and share your opinion, feel free to comment back, supplement or give support. These do not have to belong and extensive comments. A few sentences are enough for the conversation to continue. This is great for starting a friendship because you don’t go personally with the desire to be someone’s friend or partner, but you are united by the same opinions. Just make sure that the post you are writing a comment on is not too old because that way the person will know that you intentionally searched their profile in order to find something to comment on.
If you do not want others to see your comments or simply prefer personalized conversations, then you can respond to the post that is interesting to you with a direct message. This is also the most popular when it comes to social networks. For example, if you see an announcement about a workshop or course from an interested person, you can send a direct message to get as much information about it as possible, or hear his / her experiences. This way you let the person know that you have the same interests, but also that you want to hear their opinion or experience. Great strategy!
You can comment on the profile of an interesting person
The profile hides all the important information that the person wants to share with others, and that relates to her. If you’re targeting a potential friend or partner, be sure to read their profile. Most likely, the place he likes to go to the most, the book he adores, the film, the genre, the type of art, maybe the sport he plays and similar details will be highlighted. If you find common points of interest, here’s a great opportunity to start a conversation. For example, if a person likes a certain genre of music or film, you can send a comment in terms of suggestions or exchange experiences. Specifically: a person loves comedies, you can send him a message such as I read on your profile that you love comedies, I have been looking for a good movie for a long time, do you have a recommendation?
This will be enough to develop a story that can lead to a great friendship. Based on the person’s response, you will clearly conclude whether or not he is in the mood for further conversation and follow and respect that.
Do you have mutual friends?
Giving comments on mutual friends is a great start to starting a conversation. One mutual friend is not such a good sign, but more of them and who you are. For example, you see that the person you want to start a conversation with is a friend on social media with two of your friends from high school or college. In this case, you could address her with the message: hi, I went to college with these people (list the names of mutual friends), and I see that they are both friends with you. Did you go to college with us? How do you know each other? Be careful with the words, remember that first impression is most important.
Dating applications
It is true that most people have prejudices when it comes to these applications. But just as shy as you become a member of one of them, maybe everyone else went through the same process. There are people who need company, depending on which application we are talking about. So inquire well and read all about the application you have chosen, so as not to be negatively surprised. If this is exactly what interests you, then don’t just be an anonymous observer, but take an active part. Create your profile and fill in as many details as possible in the “about me” section as this is a key part of the selection.
Just as you would start the conversation in the real world, the same thing is with the online ones, by no means be too pushy or too mysterious, because no one has the time or nerves to waste. Be completely honest and open, because it is a possible chance for a great friendship. Fill up your time, have fun with online friends. Who knows, maybe you will meet some of them in person.