How to Make Friends Online

Making new friends has become both easier and harder. Easier, because we have more ways to meet than ever before – but harder, because screens often create distance. Here are some concrete tips on how to start conversations on Stranger Meetup that actually lead somewhere – to laughter, honest chats, and maybe even a new bestie. The focus is on standing out from the crowd, building trust, and daring to be yourself – even through a screen.

So, you like a person’s bio or think they look cute in their profile picture – but now what?

It’s easy to feel uncomfortable or awkward when making the first move online. You don’t want to come across as a total creep. Don’t worry – there’s a way to go beyond the basic “hey, what’s up?”

Personalize Your Opening Message on Stranger Meetup

A simple “hi” is like shouting “Hello?” on public transportation. It’s harmless – but also pretty easy to ignore. If you want to start a conversation that actually goes somewhere, you need to show that you’re curious about this specific person. That doesn’t mean you should interrogate them – just give them something real to respond to.

What you need is a personal opener that connects to something that shows you’ve actually seen them – and opens the door to real conversation. In other words, skip the yes/no questions and go for open-ended ones. Keep the tone light – diving into heavy topics too soon can scare anyone off.

Sample Opening Lines

Comment on something in their bio:

“Okay, I have to ask—what’s your go-to comfort movie?”

“I saw that you’re into horseback riding — have you always been, or is it a new obsession?”

“You mentioned loving long walks and podcasts. Respect. What are your three favorites?”

If you want to come off a little more quirky:

This or that questions:
“Important question: pancakes or waffles?”
“Guacamole or salsa?”

“If we were in a movie, what scene would we be in right now?”
“What’s something random you’ve been thinking way too much about lately?”

Note: The quirky style isn’t for everyone. It can be fun to try, but it might also earn you an eye-roll and a swift logout.

Be Curious (Not Creepy)

So, they replied to your personalized opener – now what? Keep the same energy going. Ask curious questions that invite conversation. Just don’t go too private too fast – that can feel overwhelming, especially online. Try to match their tone, pace, and message length. It’s about mirroring, not pretending.

For example: if they mention loving podcasts, share a link to one of your own favorites. If the conversation naturally turns deeper, open up a bit yourself.

Move From Stranger Meetup to Real Talk

We love that you use Stranger Meetup to make new connections, but let’s be honest – sometimes it’s easier to move the chat elsewhere. Only you (or they) can tell when it’s time to take the leap to a video call or even an IRL meetup. Keep the ask casual, no pressure. For example:

“Would you ever be up for a coffee sometime? No pressure at all!”

One Message on Stranger Meetup Could Change Everything

You don’t have to be funny, perfect, or have a script ready to start a friendship on Stranger Meetup. Sometimes, all it takes is a little courage and a bit of curiosity.

When you let someone see a glimpse of the real you – even just a tiny bit – you open the door to something beyond small talk. Not every chat will turn into something big, and that’s totally okay. But sometimes, it just clicks. And that can be the beginning of something really good.

So send the message. Ask the question. And if it feels a little scary – do it anyway. It might not lead to the longest convo ever, but it could lead to a laugh. Or a new friend.

And honestly? That’s kind of everything.
We’re rooting for you. 🙌