Get to know new people in the club(s). At each meeting, try to talk to someone you’ve never talked to before.
Check the local paper (or its website) for community events nearby. Libraries or art studios often host events for teens. Look for organizations that hold meetings for things that you are interested in, like outdoor activities, games, or artistic expression.
Don’t be afraid to initiate a conversation. Even if you’re naturally shy, go up and talk to someone if you want to. You may want to find an “excuse” to talk to them (like giving them something they dropped or asking them what time it is). If you recognize someone from school or a club or activity, or if you have a mutual friend, bring that up. Ask new friends questions about themselves. People love to talk about themselves, and asking them questions rather than spending most of the time talking about yourself will leave a better first impression. Avoid gossiping or talking badly about others. Though this can be tempting, it can leave a bad impression or you may offend your new friend unintentionally.
Reach out to friends that you would like to spend more time with. A simple call or text every now and then can help you maintain or recover old relationships. If you have any friends who are possessive or controlling of your time—particularly if you start spending time with new people—you may want to distance yourself from them.
Ask a friend that you know is going to the party to hang out one-on-one at the time of the party—they may tell you about the party and invite you to go with them. If someone mentions the party, say “wow, that sounds really fun” and look them in the eye. They will likely invite you if they are able to. Ask a friend who is attending a party directly if you can tag along. Show up to the party if you know when and where it is. It is very unlikely that anyone will question you about who invited you.
If a friend is attending a party but they are not sure if they can invite you to another person’s party, ask them to introduce you to the host. Start a conversation with the host of the next party, and then compliment them on their outfit or a recent accomplishment that you heard about (like being nominated to homecoming court). Casually ask them if they mind you dropping by her party for a little while. Most people will be uncomfortable telling someone no to their face.
Be sure that everyone has a good time. Try to spend a little time with everyone who attends. Address everyone by name and thank them for coming. Even if it’s someone you don’t know well, they will feel special if you pay some personal attention to them. If you’re not sure of someone’s name, ask another party attendee who may know. At the end of your party, jokingly ask, “okay, whose turn is it to throw the next one?”
Tell jokes only if you’re good at it. Be sure your joke is appropriate for the audience and context (don’t offend anyone). Laugh at other people’s jokes, even if they’re not that funny. If you laugh at people’s jokes, people will think that you have a good sense of humor.
You want people to remember you, even if they have never met you before.
You don’t want people to remember you in a bad way.
If you are having a good conversation with someone, ask if there is anything fun happening the next weekend. If you know someone who is planning to host a party soon, be sure to spend some time chatting with them to give them the opportunity to invite you to their party.
