Many of us struggle to talk to new people, but meeting new people doesn’t have to be scary. Have a look at some of our ideas to help you start building new friendships at school.
1. Use Conversation Starters to Get Chatting
![One student asking a classmate if they can borrow a pen and the second student agrees](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2599/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_001-scaled.jpg)
Check out our conversation starters for going back to school.
2. Spend Time with Your Friend’s Friends
![A group of friends have a conversation about what they watched on TV the night before](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2600/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_002-scaled.jpg)
Hanging out with friends of friends can be a great way to meet new people. It’s always less awkward if you have someone to introduce you and something to talk about.
3. Speak to Someone Who’s on Their Own
![A student asks someone in the school canteen if they can sit next to them](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2601/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_003-scaled.jpg)
Not only will you be helping someone else who might be in a similar situation to you but it usually feels easier to approach one person than a large group.
4. Look for Common Interests
![Two students discuss their mutual appreciation for One Direction](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2602/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_004-scaled.jpg)
Having something in common with someone won’t automatically make you best friends, but people tend to open up about things they’re passionate about.
5. Be Approachable
![A student approaches two tables and wonders where to sit](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2603/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_005-scaled.jpg)
It’s far easier to approach someone who looks like they want to talk to you. Barriers such as wearing earphones and negative body-language might put people off.
6. Ask Open Questions
![Two scenarios in which two students discuss their summer, the first is cut short with a simple answer](https://young.scot/wp-content/uploads/media/2604/relationships_articlecontent_shypersonsguide_006-scaled.jpg)
Open questions are questions that can have a number of responses, whereas closed questions are questions which are limited to a few set answers. When chatting to people try to use open questions to encourage discussion and if you get asked a question try to respond in a way that suggests you’re happy to continue a conversation.
If you’re looking to build your confidence check out our advice from a confidence coach. Plus, take note from these celebs who didn’t let their shyness hold them back.