Put away your phone or other electronics and make room for them on the sofa if you are sitting in the same room. If you are using the TV or listening to music when they come over, turn it off. The background noise can be distracting and make it appear like you don’t really care about their presence. Help your parents clean and put away things before visitors come over.
Ask them about something important in their life. Maybe they have a pet that they love or perhaps they have taken a trip recently. Show that you are interested in learning more about what is happening in their life. Your parents friends’ will probably ask questions of you, too. Be sure to give them genuine answers. If they ask how school is going, don’t just reply, “Fine. " Mention a project you recently completed or a book you read for class that you enjoyed. Use polite language. Don’t use profanity or other harsh language. You might think this makes you look mature, but it really is just off-putting. Make sure your conversation is appropriate. If your parents’ friend has recently experienced something painful – such as a divorce or a death in the family – don’t bring this up in casual conversation. It could surprise them or remind them of something very difficult.
If your parents friends’ have brought over their own kids, this would be a great opportunity to spend time with them. Invite them on a walk around the neighborhood or to hang out in your basement.
Observe how your parents talk to their friends. How do they express interest in each other’s lives? How do they joke or bond with each other?
Ask your parents what qualities they look for in friends, such as loyalty, a sense of humor, and emotional support. How do they build a friendship on these qualities?
How do your parents manage disagreements with their friends? How do they find common ground with each other? How do they forgive each other when their friendships hit a rough patch?
If you are about to leave for college and make a new friend group, then look to join clubs and organizations that match your interests.
You also need to be happy for your friend when they celebrate major successes or milestones in life, like a new job or a wedding. Don’t be competitive or jealous with your friend.
