It can be difficult to make a real connection with someone when you first meet them. It takes time, patience, and empathy to get to know a person on a deeper level. But when you’re able to easily break the ice with someone, you can start to build a meaningful friendship with your new vina instantly! Check out these tips to get beyond the surface level.
1. ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS
Instead of just the run-of-the-mill, “how are you?” or “what’s up?” questions, ask questions that go deeper and help you learn more about the person. Some suggestions are to ask about the pet in their profile picture, their cool sense of style, or anything they shared on their profile or in-person that catches your interest. Get to know them by asking what makes them who they are.
2. FIND SOMETHING IN COMMON
Read her bio, check out her Instagram page or see what communities she’s a part of on the Hey! VINA app and look for similarities that you share. When you find something you both have in common, it will make it much easier to connect on a deeper level and build a true friendship based on things you both enjoy.
3. LISTEN CLOSELY
With all of the distractions out there (I’m talking about you, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook), it can be difficult to give your full attention to your new vina. Respond to her messages, take interest in what she likes and listen closely to what she has to say. Being a good listener is a key quality in a good friend.
4. SUGGEST AN ACTIVITY YOU’LL BOTH ENJOY
If you saw an activity or hobby that she enjoyed, suggest doing this activity together. Whether it’s cooking, window shopping, or going to comedy shows, do something you and your vina can enjoy together.
5. SHARE SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOURSELF
Did you just get a new job? Earn a new certification or degree? Adopt a new pet? Whatever it is, tell your vina and she’ll get to know (and love!) the real you.
6. RECOMMEND SOMETHING USEFUL
Share your knowledge. Recommend a new yoga class, restaurant or book, and we are sure that your vina will be grateful for it. You may even find something in common this way. Hello, new yoga buddy!
7. SHOW INTEREST
Now, this sounds like an obvious one, but it can be often over-looked. Show that you’re interested in your vina by asking questions and really engaging in the conversation. Ask questions and do your best to remember her answers.
8. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES
Did you recently go on an overseas trip, learn a new skill, or even something as simple as cooking a different breakfast meal for yourself? Tell your vina! She’ll most likely be interested in what you do for fun and how you keep yourself busy and entertained. If you have something to share that could benefit or interest her, don’t be shy! Tell her and watch your connection grow even stronger.
9. EXPRESS YOUR EMOTIONS
Loving the profile pic your vina has or obsessing over the fact that she loves matcha too? Tell her! Express your emotions of excitement, happiness, or even vulnerability to your new friend and you will automatically have a stronger connection.
10. BE TRUE TO YOURSELF
Best for last! Be yourself and show your new vina what you’re all about. Chances are she’ll like you for you and you two will get to know each other authentically. Don’t hide anything, be open with who you are, and your vina will love you for you!
We taught you how to break the ice. Now it’s your turn to find your vinas!