Dating apps aren’t just for finding love interests or romantic partners – they can also be used to expand your social circle and meet new friends. Whether you’re new to a city or just looking for more like-minded people to hang out with, here are some tips for using a dating app to make new friends.
- Be upfront about your intentions
When creating your profile, make it clear that you’re not necessarily looking for a romantic relationship. Mention that you’re dating app interested in meeting new friends and open to platonic connections. This will help you attract other people who are also looking for non-romantic connections.
- Use the right apps
While most dating apps are geared towards romantic relationships, some apps are designed specifically for finding friends. For example, Bumble has a “BFF” feature that allows users to connect with potential friends of the same gender. Other apps that can be used to make friends include Meetup, Friender, and Hey! VINA.
- Join interest-based groups
Many dating apps have groups or communities based on shared interests. Joining these groups can be a great way to connect with like-minded people who share your hobbies or passions. Look for groups that are focused on activities you enjoy, such as hiking, book clubs, or cooking.
- Be open to meeting in person
Once you’ve connected with someone on the app, don’t be afraid to suggest meeting up in person. Meeting in a public place like a coffee shop or park can be a great way to get to know someone and see if you have a connection.
- Be patient
Making new friends takes time, and it may not happen overnight. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find your new best friend right away. Keep swiping and chatting with new people, and eventually, you’ll find someone who clicks.
- Be respectful of boundaries
Just because you’re using a dating app to make friends doesn’t mean that everyone else is. Respect other people’s boundaries and don’t pressure them into meeting in person if they’re not comfortable.
- Keep safety in mind
As with any online interaction, it’s important to keep safety in mind when using dating apps to make friends. Be cautious when sharing personal information and always meet in a public place for the first time.
In conclusion, using dating apps to make friends can be a great way to expand your social circle and meet new people. By being upfront about your intentions, using the right apps, joining interest-based groups, being open to meeting in person, being patient, respecting boundaries, and keeping safety in mind, you can successfully use a dating app to make new friends.
