Making friends in real life is difficult, making friends online can seem even harder. Especially since the majority of communication is done through writing… and if you’re not the best writer, then write (ha) off the bat this is something that intimidates you on a whole new level, not to mention the infamous writer’s block. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, because even writers still think they’re terrible writers. Basically, you’re amongst friends. See! You’ve already made one friend, just from reading this article, and if you want to become even better friends, let’s follow eachother on Instagram so we can stalk one another. 

Back to the point, this article, will cover tips for people looking to make more friends online. Consider it a guide, or rules for engagement, for making friends, what you do with it is completely up to you.

P.S. I’m not looking to get engaged, Susan is already the love of my life.

#1 Actually care

Don’t pretend you want to be someone’s friend if you don’t actually want to be. No one likes it when someone follows and then unfollows them. It’s the equivalent of someone asking if you want ice cream, not because they want to go with you to get ice cream, no, because they just want to know if you want it. Of course we want it, it’s frozen dairy deliciousness.

#2 Follow and engage

Nobody likes to be ghosted. If we’re friends, then I want to hear from you every once in a while. Engagement does not need to be every day, and you don’t need to follow everyone, but giving updates whether daily, or once in a blue moon, is totes cool, it all depends on the amount of time you can dedicate and how much stuff you have going on. Don’t over glamorize your life, nobody likes that, Kim.

#3 Strike up a conversation

A great way to do this is by asking questions, questions like: “How’s your cat? Why don’t you have a cat?” and 

“When are you going to get a cat?” And it’s okay to ask questions first. No one likes a one-sided conversation, unless you’re speaking to a cat.

*Pro Tip* Adopt a cat, then you’ll always be prepared.

#4 Know where your ideal friend lives

You wouldn’t go to Home Depot to buy a car, unless since the release of this article they’ve added a car section, then, by all means, go to Home Depot to buy a car, but for the purpose of this article let’s say that they don’t, then why do we feel the need to be in all the places on the internet all the time? You don’t have to. You only have to be in the places that make sense and are places having conversations that you want to be part of.

#5 Be real.

Referring back to #1 (Actually give a shit), being real and authentic is hands-down the best approach to making friends online. Especially, in a world where there’s a lot of fake schtuff, but as humans, we tend to know when someone is being real – it’s a subconscious thing.

#6 Have fun.

Making friends online should be a fun thing, not an annoying or tedious thing. So, when you’re engaging and making new connections, remember, this is fun. If it’s not, then stop, breathe and adjust.

Have fun. Make friends.

XoXo,

Reid