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0 Are you in your late 20s and looking to expand your social circle? Making friends as an adult can be challenging, especially if you’ve moved to a new city, changed jobs, or simply drifted apart from your old crew. But fear not! The internet has opened up a world of possibilities for connecting with like-minded individuals. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best online places to make friends in your late 20s.
1. Meetup
Meetup is a popular platform that brings together people with shared interests. From book clubs and hiking groups to career networking events, there’s something for everyone. Simply search for groups that align with your hobbies or passions, join the ones that pique your interest, and attend upcoming events. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people face-to-face in a structured setting.
Tips for Success on Meetup
- Fill out your profile completely and add a friendly photo
- Introduce yourself to the group organizer and other members
- Attend events regularly to build familiarity and rapport
2. Bumble BFF
You may know Bumble as a dating app, but did you know it also has a mode specifically for making friends? Bumble BFF connects you with potential pals in your area based on shared interests. Swipe right on profiles that catch your eye, and if there’s a mutual match, you can start chatting. It’s a low-pressure way to meet new people without the romantic implications.
Making the Most of Bumble BFF
- Be clear in your profile about the types of friendships you’re seeking
- Initiate conversations by asking about their interests or experiences
- Suggest a casual meetup, like grabbing coffee or attending a local event together
3. Facebook Groups
Facebook Groups are virtual communities centered around specific topics, hobbies, or life stages. There are groups for nearly every interest imaginable, from cooking and crafting to travel and technology. Joining a group allows you to connect with others who share your passions, ask for advice, and participate in discussions. Some groups even organize in-person meetups, giving you the chance to take your online friendships offline.
Engaging in Facebook Groups
- Participate actively by commenting on posts and starting discussions
- Offer help or advice when others ask questions
- Be respectful and follow the group’s rules and guidelines
4. Reddit
Reddit is a massive online forum divided into subreddits covering an endless array of topics. Whether you’re into gaming, photography, or personal finance, there’s a subreddit for you. Engage in discussions, share your knowledge, and connect with others who have similar interests. Many subreddits also have an associated Discord server, allowing for real-time chat and voice communication.
Finding Friends on Reddit
- Join subreddits related to your hobbies, career, or location
- Participate in discussions and contribute valuable insights
- Attend Reddit meetups or join associated Discord servers to deepen connections
5. Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a neighborhood-based social network that connects you with people who live nearby. While its primary purpose is to keep residents informed about local events, crime, and recommendations, it’s also a great way to meet neighbors and build a sense of community. Introduce yourself, offer to lend a hand, or organize a neighborhood get-together to break the ice.
Connecting on Nextdoor
- Create a detailed profile and add a friendly photo
- Participate in discussions and offer helpful recommendations
- Attend local events or volunteer opportunities posted on the platform
6. Friender
Friender is an app designed specifically for making platonic friends. Users create profiles highlighting their interests, and the app suggests potential matches based on shared activities. You can chat with matches, plan meetups, and even create group events for multiple friends to attend. It’s a straightforward way to connect with people who enjoy the same things you do.
Using Friender Effectively
- Be detailed in your profile about your interests and friendship goals
- Initiate conversations by asking about their favorite activities or experiences
- Plan meetups around shared interests, like attending a concert or trying a new restaurant
7. BumbleBizz
BumbleBizz is a networking feature within the Bumble app designed for career-minded individuals. While its primary focus is professional networking, it can also be a great way to meet friends with similar career goals or entrepreneurial aspirations. Connect with people in your industry, attend networking events together, and build relationships that blend business with friendship.
Making Connections on BumbleBizz
- Highlight your professional achievements and goals in your profile
- Start conversations by asking about their career or sharing industry insights
- Suggest meeting up for a coffee or attending a relevant conference together
8. LinkedIn Groups
LinkedIn is known as a platform for professional networking, but it can also be a valuable tool for making friends with shared career interests. Join LinkedIn Groups related to your industry, participate in discussions, and connect with individuals who share your professional passions. You may find mentors, collaborators, or simply friends who understand the challenges and triumphs of your career path.
Engaging in LinkedIn Groups
- Contribute valuable insights and resources to group discussions
- Reach out to individuals whose comments resonate with you
- Suggest meeting up for an industry event or casual get-together
9. Eventbrite
Eventbrite is an online platform for discovering and attending events in your area. From workshops and classes to concerts and festivals, there’s always something happening. Attend events that align with your interests, and strike up conversations with fellow attendees. You’ll already have a built-in common ground, making it easier to forge new connections.
Making Friends Through Eventbrite
- Browse events based on your hobbies or curiosities
- Attend solo and challenge yourself to introduce yourself to others
- Follow up with people you connected with after the event
10. Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a global community of travelers who open their homes to host others or stay with locals while exploring new destinations. But the platform isn’t just for finding a place to crash; it’s also a way to meet fellow adventurers and locals who can show you the hidden gems of their city. Attend Couchsurfing meetups, go on group outings, and bond over your shared love of travel.
Connecting Through Couchsurfing
- Fill out your profile with your travel experiences and interests
- Join local Couchsurfing groups and attend meetups
- Host travelers or stay with locals to immerse yourself in the community
11. Volunteer Match
Volunteer Match connects volunteers with opportunities to give back in their local communities. Not only is volunteering a fulfilling way to make a difference, but it’s also a great way to meet compassionate, community-minded individuals. Bond over your shared values and commitment to making the world a better place.
Finding Friends Through Volunteering
- Search for opportunities that align with your skills and passions
- Attend volunteer orientations and events to meet fellow volunteers
- Suggest grabbing coffee or lunch with volunteers you click with
12. Peanut
Peanut is an app designed for mothers to connect with each other based on shared experiences and interests. Whether you’re a new mom seeking support or an experienced parent looking to swap stories, Peanut provides a welcoming community. Join group discussions, attend meetups, and form friendships with other moms who understand the joys and challenges of parenthood.
Building Friendships on Peanut
- Be open about your parenting experiences and challenges
- Join group discussions and offer support or advice
- Suggest meetups at kid-friendly locations like parks or play cafes
13. Atleto
Atleto is an app that connects sports enthusiasts and helps them find teammates, opponents, and workout buddies. Whether you’re into basketball, yoga, or running, Atleto makes it easy to find others who share your passion for staying active. Join a team, attend group workouts, and bond over your shared love of fitness.
Meeting Friends Through Atleto
- Fill out your profile with your favorite sports and fitness activities
- Join teams or group workouts that align with your interests
- Suggest post-workout socializing, like grabbing a healthy snack or smoothie
14. Friended
Friended is an app that helps you meet new people through mutual friends. Connect your social media accounts, and Friended will suggest potential friends based on your shared connections and interests. It’s a way to expand your social circle while still having the comfort of a shared acquaintance.
Making Connections on Friended
- Link your social media accounts to find shared connections
- Browse suggested friends and send a message to those who interest you
- Suggest meeting up in a group setting with your mutual friend
15. Online forums and communities
Nearly every hobby or interest has an associated online forum or community. From photography and gardening to cooking and crafting, there are countless places to connect with others who share your passions. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and attend virtual or in-person meetups to turn your online connections into real-life friendships.
Engaging in Online Communities
- Find forums or communities related to your interests
- Contribute regularly by starting discussions and offering advice
- Attend associated meetups or conferences to meet members in person
FAQs
Q: How do I stay safe when meeting online friends in person?
A: Always meet in a public place, inform a friend or family member of your plans, and trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to leave the situation.
Q: What if I’m an introvert and struggle with making the first move?
A: Start by participating in online discussions and gradually build up to one-on-one conversations. Remember that others may be feeling just as nervous, so a simple “hello” can go a long way.
Q: How do I turn casual online acquaintances into deeper friendships?
A: Consistently engage with their posts, find common ground, and suggest meetups or virtual hang-outs. Friendships take time and effort to develop, so be patient and persistent.
Conclusion
Making friends in your late 20s can feel daunting, but the internet has made it easier than ever to connect with like-minded individuals. By exploring these 15 online platforms and communities, you’ll open yourself up to a world of potential friendships. Remember to be authentic, engage actively, and take the leap from online to in-person interactions. With a little effort and an open mind, you’ll soon find yourself with a thriving social circle filled with friends who share your passions and support your journey through adulthood.
