How to develop a friendship with someone you just met at an event

Have you ever met someone new and immediately bonded with them and now you’re wondering - how do I strengthen this relationship in a way that is mutually beneficial to us both? 

Everyone raises their hand because we’ve ALL been there.

So just know, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, I am there. You know that friends are super important to individuals and that good ones bring happiness into our lives. So exploring this potential friendship is worth it...

So you connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and start liking and commenting on all their posts and you think alright, we’re friends, they won’t forget me, they appreciate me for liking all their content. I’m done, on to the next friendship. 

No no no no no. That’s not going to help strengthen this budding friendship. Okay, wait - it may but it definitely won’t be a sustainable way. 

Having an online friend isn’t the same as having someone you can actually kick it with in-person. Sending a virtual hug meme/gif is not the same as having someone give you an I’m so proud of you hug  when you’ve just beasted out on a new project. You’ve got to make sure you’re also intentional in nurturing the new relationship in person because our most powerful connecting happens when we’re face-to-face. 

Invite them out and also accept their invitation when extended to you - both of those actions are uncomfortable, but do it anyway. If you hate it - never go out with them again, it’s that easy, but if you love it, you all have an amazing time, and you know you’ve started the progression of a beautiful new friendship. 

What suggestions do you have for nurturing new friendships?