Make Friends With Quiet People, Here Are Tips To Stay Familiar

Illustration of how to get along with quiet people (Unsplash/Brookie Cagle)

YOGYAKARTA – Often spending time with friends who are quiet, or known to be introverted, turns out to be fun. But sometimes it takes a strategy so that friendships last forever.

Introverts tend to be more reserved and shy. This can make them more difficult to read, approach, and make friends with. Befriending a quiet person takes a lot of time and effort. But in the end, the relationship will be richer. Since introverts consider those closest to them to have a special place in their lives, here's how to maintain friendships with a quiet introvert.

Respect his personal space

Introverts value their personal space and privacy very much, so it's important to respect their boundaries. This means you need to give them notice when you're visiting their home and not bring surprise guests without telling them beforehand. Limitations for introverts have to do with how they manage the moment when they meet other people. Perhaps, when faced with a surprise they will feel overwhelmed.

Illustration of how to get along with quiet people (Unsplash/Jarritos)

Don't take their silence personally

Introverts spend a lot of time in the world of their own thoughts and feelings and may be quiet in groups of people. This can cause them to be misunderstood by others, who may be offended by their silence.

Instead of asking, "Why are you so quiet?" or assume they are upset, try assuming your introverted friends are naturally quiet. Silence is normal for them and doesn't mean they aren't listening or engaging.

Invite them to hang out a few people

Introverts are less likely to feel overwhelmed when interacting with people 1:1 or in small groups, reports Social Self. Consider asking your introverted friend to hang out in a quiet place where you can talk, such as at a quiet cafe or at a local park.

Understand why they declined the invitation

When an introvert feels overwhelmed in social situations, say goodbye, decline invitations, or even back away from plans. While this may feel personal, it's more likely a sign that they're feeling nervous, overwhelmed, or just needing some alone time to recharge. Try not to take them personally when this happens, as they might just take up some needed personal space.

Encourage them to open up to you

Introverts can be quiet and often need someone a little more extroverted to pull them out by asking questions or starting a conversation with them. Since they probably won't talk unless asked to, open up a conversation that can warm up your friendship.

It's usually best to start with a more shallow conversation. A deeper or more personal discussion of topics can take place after trust is established.