HEY MIKE! How should I help a shy buddy? There’s a guy at school who always hangs out with me, and I think I’m his only friend. How can I teach him to be more sociable?
—P.L., Diamond Bar, Calif.
Try this:
1. Invite him to hang with you when you’re going to be with just one or two other guys. Let him get used to a social setting.
2. Give him some support by asking him questions. Make sure to draw him into the conversation. (HINT: Don’t say things to the others like “This quiet guy is my friend. Don’t let his bad breath and poor personality scare you off. He’s really a lot of fun for a kid with no friends.”)
3. Don’t be afraid to talk with him about how he can be more relaxed around other people. EXAMPLE: “You know, Billy, I don’t think people like it when you blow your nose in their napkins.”
4. Be patient and give your friend time to develop relationships on his own. But don’t get jealous if he starts to hang out with somebody else every now and then. 
