With the explosion of social networks on the Internet, it’s easier than ever to make new friends online. Armed with an email account and a few simple clicks, you can be on your way to new friends in no time. The Internet offers endless options for socializing, from general social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, to sites for specific interests, such as Meetup.com, which includes groups with activities ranging from cooking to running. Whatever your background and lifestyle, you can meet like-minded people online.
Step 1
Create social networking profiles. If you haven’t already, join sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Meetup, and create a profile that reflects your interests and the kind of friends you want to meet. Be sure to upload photos of yourself so people can see who they’re virtually talking to.
Step 2
Join groups on Facebook. Find your old classmates and friends by joining pages from your high school or college from the year you graduated. You can browse others in the group and send friend requests to them. Meet new friends by joining interest groups on Facebook, such as local political, social or religious organizations that interest you.
Step 3
Update your social networking accounts regularly to keep people interested and attract friends. Keep your tone light and fun, as if you are hanging out with friends. Be attentive to your followers and friends, and reply to their comments directed at you.
Step 4
Keep up with your friends’ online activity by commenting on their updates and sending them messages. The same principles of friendship apply online as they do in person, so be considerate, generous and caring.
Step 5
Join Meetup groups that cater to your interests. If you love dogs, for instance, search Meetup.com for a dog group in your city and attend their meetups. Meetups are a great way to meet new friends that share your interests and beliefs.
Step 6
Follow people on Twitter who follow you, and follow those whom you would want to follow you. Engage your followers in conversations by direct message or @ replies. Tweet often and you will quickly gain friends.
Step 7
Place a friendship ad in the platonic section of Craigslist. It has become a local newspaper of sorts for people all over the world, and it can be a great way to connect with people in your town. Just be sure to use caution when meeting strangers in person, and choose a public meeting place during the day.
Tips and Warnings
- To maintain your online friends, be consistent about keeping in touch, checking your social networks regularly to reply to messages and updates.
- When meeting people from the Internet in person, use common sense and caution and make sure a friend or family member knows where you'll be. Avoid meeting someone alone in their home for the first time, and do not meet in isolated areas.
Things You'll Need
- Internet access
- Email account
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