I got a question recently from someone that is trying to get to know an acquaintance, and the scenario she describes is a familiar one. She's trying to connect with a work friend outside of the office, but every time she meets with this person, they bring someone else along. She's wondering if this person wants to be friends with her or not. (Read my response.)
I've had this happen a time or two as well. Just recently, I've met someone through a group setting that lives fairly close to me. I thought it would be great if we could get to know each other better outside of our group. She agreed, and so I thought, "I have a new friend."
But I soon wondered if I did really have a new friend, or just someone who wanted to network some more. Each time we met, she brought a different person along. It's a mixed signal that I want to talk about here, because in our search for more friends, this can often happen. It's not unique to women, either, because my male friends have noticed the same thing when they meet a new friend or two.
Has this ever happened to you?
YES! and its happened with us as a couple with another couple that we’ve known a long time. the last few times we’ve gotton together they’ve invited another couple along, which is very frustrating when you’re trying to catch up with them and their lives. what is it with these people?
Interesting! So you’ve known the couple but suddenly they are bringing others along when you get together? I’d guess that maybe they are trying to introduce the other couple to more people.