Cheers! Grey nomads raise a glass at Happy Hour. PIC: Kurramine Beach Holiday Park
Most grey nomads setting out on their first big trip are eagerly looking forward to all aspects of their adventure … including discovering the legendary ‘camaraderie of the road’.
Before you pull out of your driveway, it’s easy to imagine all of the wonderful Happy Hour gatherings you are going to enjoy, and all the fascinating friends you are going to make all of the time.
However, sometimes the reality can be a little more challenging.
Why aren’t people rushing up to greet you as soon as you back into your site? Are they judging you because of your rig? Can they tell you’re a beginner? Are you interesting enough to talk to that experienced-looking traveller?
For people who aren’t natural extroverts, suddenly being expected to make new friends on a daily, and sometimes hourly basis can be confronting. And it’s not made easier by the fact that so many others seem to be having such great chats at the amenities block and under the annexe? They make it look so easy.
So, how do you make friends quickly? 
Wayne Elise, the founder of conversation consultants, Charisma Arts, says there are a few simple tricks.
- Create a friendly ‘vibe’ by making and holding eye contact, smiling, giving a positive affirmation, and perhaps lifting your hand up in greeting.
- Asking questions shows interest, but don’t overdo it. Avoid pushing the conversation along with questions; use statements instead. People often welcome more significant conversation, so you don’t have to start with the weather. The best subject is what’s been on the mind of your new friend lately.
- Talk like you’re friends. Statements that include both of you in the same storyline establish fast rapport, such as: “I don’t know about you, but I could … “ These sort of statements encourage interaction without demanding it.
- Don’t brag. When it comes to self-promotion, subtlety is required. Whatever great things you have done, let them find out later.
- Be silly. People trust you when you trust them enough to let your guard down. Tell an embarrassing story. If you laugh at yourself, people will feel more inclined to open up to you.
- Don’t fix their problems. Strangers often complain as a safe way of making conversation but, rather than fixing their problems, it’s more constructive for your friendship to reassure them they have the ability to solve the problems themselves.
- Don’t over-think it. It’s tempting to spend the time the other person is talking to plan what you’re going to say next. Don’t! Just listen to what they’re saying and then let the conversation flow naturally.• How do you break the ice when you meet new ‘potential friends’ in the caravan park or campsite? Email us here to share your thoughts.
