111+ Ways to Make Friends as an Adult

It can be hard to make—and maintain—satisfying friendships as an adult. The places we live, learn, and work often aren’t conducive to truly getting to know people and build relationships. It’s no wonder we’re in a loneliness epidemic with 2 out of 5 Americans saying they don’t feel close with anyone.

This blog is a collection of small action steps—based on science—to help you make closer, more fulfilling friendships.

It also includes tips for building stronger connection in your college, workplace, or community. I hope you’re inspired to experiment! Please share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in the comments.

If you’d like to receive these posts in your inbox, sign up for our weekly newsletter. Happy connecting!

Posts in employee connection

116. Tell people you like them ... it will make them like you more.

Most people want to be liked—and this need increases when we feel lonely or disconnected. In this post you’ll learn a research-backed strategy that makes people like you more.

employee connection, friendship, relationship-buildingJessica GiffordFebruary 9, 2026Comment

115. Avoid these 3 conversation killers (and what to ask instead).

Ever notice how some questions spark amazing conversations, while others fall flat? Today’s post shares 3 common questions that can kill conversation, and what to ask instead.

communication, friendship, employee connectionJessica GiffordJanuary 1, 2026ask good questions, avoid conversation killers Comments

53. Lengthen your fuse: incivility destroys connection.

Rudeness and incivility destroy employee connection, productivity, and engagement. It pays to learn how to lengthen your fuse at work and at home

relationships, employee connection, communication skillsJessica GiffordSeptember 5, 2022employee connectionComment