Post: Using Online Technology to Keep Up with or Find New Friends

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A recent study by Pew Research finds that 57% of American teens find new friends via online methods. There are many methods of making new friends online, and using technology to keep up with friends is now ubiquitous worldwide. While you might immediately think of social media messaging, you can use multiple ways to find, keep in touch with or date new people.

Dating and Interest Apps

Dating apps are nothing new. Since the early days of the internet, sites like Match.com have given way to apps such as Tinder. While chat lines in most countries are still around and offer excellent services, dating is only a tiny part of what apps and calling offer. Other apps that focus on interests are also available. Meetup, for example, allows you to search for people with the same interests. For instance, you can use Meetup (and similar apps) to find others who share your passion, such as cooking, golfing, or playing online video games.

Online Video Games

Speaking of online video games, gaming is among the most popular methods of making friends online – if you want the best experience of online gaming, remember to invest in fast xfinity internet. While the demographic is specific, anyone can take up gaming for making friends. The beauty of online games like The Elder Scrolls Online, Fortnite, and Call of Duty is that they are very inclusive of others. You may lack confidence in your life, but you can become an online legend by playing a game well. The vast majority of gamers are like-minded people who just want to have fun. They won’t judge by your religion, ethnicity, or disability.

Social Media Groups

Of course, social media is the most used technology for communication in the 21st century. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter are excellent for keeping up with friends and family. Yet you can find and make new friends with shared interests via social media groups. Social media groups are inclusive of everyone when it comes to diversity. However, you should be aware that some groups will challenge your knowledge of the subject for which the group exists. Rather than discouraging new members, this is designed to protect existing members from ridicule.

Event Marketing

First and foremost, the web is a tool for disseminating information. Therefore, it is powerful when organizing events, both online and real. You can use online platforms to schedule physical meetings. For instance, you might want to bring together a group of talented true-crime investigators for a discussion of extraordinary minds. Social media groups are a perfect platform for marketing your event. You are sure to meet like-minded people and make new friends with whom you can work and play in equal measure.

Interfriend Networking

A prime feature of social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook is seeing friends of friends. This feature can be switched off for privacy reasons as it can be misused. The Cambridge Analytica scandal is one such example. However, you can meet people through mutual friends. These friends often ask a mutual friend about you, and you should do the same. Checking in will help you decide whether someone is suitable for an online friendship. However, keep in mind that some people aren’t what they appear to be.