Starting A New Friendship

Friend, Easy Conversation Starters, Common Interests, Safe Topics, Friend, Bestee, BFF, New Friendship, Acquitance, New Colleague

They Might Be Thinking About...

  • Should I try to initiate a friendship?
  • Is this person worth the effort?
  • What topics are appropriate to discuss early in the new relationship?
  • I want to develop an authentic connection, but I am not sure where to start.
  • Should I reach out on social media? Which medium is the most important?
  • Should I ask around about this new acquaintance before building rapport?
  • Is this person going to be worth the investment of my time and energy?
  • How do I strike up a conversation with someone I don’t know?
  • What do I do after I meet someone for the first time?
  • How do I make sure that I don’t scare the person off with my interest in a friendship?
  • How frequently should I engage with someone new?
  • What are some simple ways to engage with someone via text to build rapport?
  • What do I do If the person stops responding to my requests to engage?
  • Is it ok to invite someone to attend an event after meeting them only once?
  • Should I just stick with my current group of friends?
  • What happens If the person thinks I am coming on too strong?
  • How do I find the right balance between what to say and the frequency of communications?

Words and Actions That Might Be Encouraging

  • I really enjoyed meeting you. I am looking forward to connecting again.
  • Try to establish a tempo of communication that is weekly, monthly or quarterly.
  • I would like to continue our discussion sometime.
  • I like what you stand for. We need more authenticity in the world.
  • I would like to encourage you to keep pursuing your dream. You have to keep going.
  • I would love to introduce you to some of my friends.
  • I am having a little party next week. We would love to have you attend.
  • I am usually available for lunch or coffee during the week if you have time next week.
  • What are you looking forward to doing over the next few weeks?
  • Talk about positive aspects of your life and areas you are trying to improve.

Words or Actions That Might Be Discouraging

  • I have just been so busy with my life that I have had no time to connect with anyone.
  • I wish I knew more about what was going on in your life.
  • Avoid discussions about politics, religion, and race unless you know that it is a safe topic to discuss.
  • Don't send more than 2-3 requests to connect before getting a response. If the person is interested in connecting, they will respond eventually...or not.
  • Don't be a stalker with your communications.
  • Don't share all of your sad stories early in the dialogue.
  • Don't share private information about others.
  • Avoid gossiping about other people's problems.
See Personalized Encouragement Recommendations for Someone You Care About
Personalize: Name & Relationship (sign-in/up to complete personal profile information to improve encouragement recommendations)
Select relationship type
ALREADY A MEMBER?
0
Was this guide helpful?
Your rating will help us improve this encouragement guide.