How Can An Introvert Make Friends?

I would consider myself introverted so here are some tips that have helped me make friends over the years.

First of all, realize that you probably won’t ever feel completely comfortable hanging out with a huge crowd of people. That’s okay because a handful of really good friends is all you need to feel fulfilled. In high school, I had four best friends and that was perfect for me. Introverted friendships can go deep (knowing a few people really well) rather than broad (developing shallow relationships with lots of people).

Second, look for people similar to you. When I’m at a public gathering I look for other quiet folks who may be sitting alone and also feeling awkward. I try to make them feel at ease by asking them questions about themselves.

Third, I love the quote from the book How to Win Friends and Influence People, “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”

Whenever you meet someone new ask them questions that will make them feel important.

Here are a few ideas:

• Tell me about your favorite school classes.

• When you’re not at work, what do you like to do for fun?

• Tell me about your holiday plans, vacation plans, etc.

• Tell me about a good book you’re reading these days.

Another great book for introverts to read is Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain, Kathe Mazur, et al. This book was written by an introvert for introverts.

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