Making friends can make people feel both excited and intimidated, especially for men wanting to make friends with women. Not only do men and women differ in physical ways, but they often differ in the ways they socialize, relate to each other and develop new friendships. Although learning to make friends with a woman may cause anxiety, knowing what she is thinking and what she likes can make the difference between becoming friends or enemies.
Participate in Social Gatherings
Get to know the woman with whom you want to make friends in a group setting. The Better Health Channel warns against turning down party invitations or opportunities to participate in other social occasions. Be yourself, and allow her to see how you interact with others in social gatherings. Pay attention to her without neglecting other members of the group.
Learn to Listen
While you may find it difficult to focus on everything someone else is saying, try to pay attention while your female friend talks. Focus on what she says, rather than trying to think what you will say next. Find out how she feels by listening to not only her voice, but also by tuning in to her nonverbal cues, such as her expressions, body language and voice inflections. Focusing on her when she speaks lets her know that you care enough to listen to what she has to say.
Be Friendly
Smile when you happen to run into each other at work, in the store or on the street. Look her in the eye and give her an open, friendly smile. Greet her confidently and inquire about her day or mention a topic that you know interests her, such as mentioning the previous night's baseball game or asking her about her new car.
Be Brotherly
Some women like the feeling of casual warmth and protection they get from men, according to "Psychology Today." Treat her the way you would want someone to treat your favorite sister. Maintain a casual attitude while still treating her with respect. Joke with her and share your funny antidotes and stories you can both laugh about. Be comfortable and casual around her. Show compassion and understanding when she shares her feelings with you about important issues.
