Three Ways to Take the Awkwardness Out of Meeting New Friends as a Mum, By MOB Member, Zoe
Hi Mobsters,
I am Zoe, a mum, Mob member and Connection Expert! Today I am sharing my tips on how to make connecting with others less awkward. As always, please feel free to share your own experiences, feedback and ask any questions in the comments box below.
Meeting new people as a mum can often feel like navigating a tricky social minefield. Whether you're looking for playdates for your little one or simply craving adult conversation, the awkwardness of making new friends can be overwhelming. But fear not – building new friendships doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Here are three ways you can confidently meet new people and form meaningful connections…
1. Join a Mum Group or Community
One of the best ways to take the edge off meeting new people is to join a mum group or community. I remember my first ever MOB event – their launch party to be exact. I walked in, a little nervous, but as the evening unfolded, I found myself grinning from ear to ear. My husband gave me a knowing smile when I returned home and said, “You’ve found your tribe, haven’t you?” And he was right.
For the first time since my son was born, I felt like I could walk into a room full of strangers and just be me again. It was such a liberating experience. If you’re worried about walking into a mum group where you don’t know anyone, consider starting with a group that allows you to bring your child. Children are wonderful icebreakers and act as a security blanket – you can always focus on them if you’re unsure what to say or do next.
Top Tip: If you’re new, let the host know this is your first time and that you don’t know anyone. This way, they can help you feel included and introduce you to others. Trust me, it takes the pressure off and sets you up for success in making connections.
2. Use the SEEQ Method to Start Conversations
The SEEQ method, developed by Danielle Bayard Jackson, is a fantastic tool for striking up casual conversations, especially when you’re at the park or soft play with your child. It’s a step-by-step guide that helps you build rapport with other parents without feeling forced. Here’s how it works:
Smile: Start with a genuine smile and a compliment. For example, “You handled that meltdown so well, how did you keep your cool?” or “I love your outfit! Where did you get it?”
Everyday Small Talk: Talk about something relatable, like your kids. A simple line like, “They give me a heart attack when they climb up that slide like that!” can instantly break the ice.
Environmental Observations: Comment on something in your surroundings. You can mention what you see, hear, smell, or even feel. For example, “It’s freezing out here today, isn’t it? I wonder if it’ll snow this winter…”
Question: Ask a question to keep the conversation going. You could say, “Have you been here before? I’m about to grab a coffee and cake for the little one – would you like to join me?”
By using the SEEQ method, you’ll not only make the other person feel comfortable, but it also keeps the conversation flowing naturally. This approach works wonders when you’re trying to meet other mums in informal settings.
3. Embrace the ‘With or Without You’ Energy
This technique is my personal secret sauce when it comes to making new friends without feeling desperate or awkward. It’s all about offering a low-pressure invitation that’s easy for the other person to accept (or decline) without making them feel uncomfortable.
Here’s how it works: when you’re inviting someone to join you for coffee, a walk, or an activity, do so in a way that feels casual and unbothered. You could say something like, “I’m about to grab a coffee and a cake for my little one – want to join me? ”
This approach works wonders because it shows that you’re confident, independent, and don’t need their company to feel validated. If they say yes, great! If not, there’s no awkwardness – you simply go on with your day, knowing you extended a friendly invitation in a natural, low-stress way.
Building new friendships as a mum doesn’t have to be awkward and the connection they provide can be a lifesaver. In fact I’ve met some of my closest friends using some of the ways above. Be brave and give them a go.
I’m Zoe, a connection expert, and my mission is to help mums rebuild their relationships—whether it’s with friends, partners, or even themselves. I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful connection can bring joy, energy, and a renewed sense of purpose into your life.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re ready to feel connected again, I’d love to help. You can:
Follow me on Instagram: @movethru_
Explore my 1-2-1 sessions or join my community, ReKindle Your Relationships: https://linktr.ee/movethru
