You’re Not bad at making friends, just in the wrong culture. Swipe to see 8 surprising ways people connect around the world
At WKND CLUB, it’s not all about dating.
We’ve got singles, non-singles, newcomers, and pros from all fields — just here to meet new people.
Funny thing is, many ask us for socializing tips.
And after digging into it, we realized:
Maybe you’re not bad at socializing…
You might just be in the wrong country to truly shine.
Japan: Not making the first move = social genius?
Being chatty and starting conversations is seen as a social strength in many cultures.
But in Japan, the key lies in observation and knowing your place.
Being too forward can feel intrusive, and getting too familiar too fast makes people uncomfortable.
The highest level of social skill?
Sensing each other’s thoughts — even in silence.
Finland: Silence is the highest form of connection
There’s a Finnish saying: “Silence is the deepest form of friendship.” While you might think friends need to talk to feel close, in Finland,
sitting together in comfortable silence is a true sign of trust. No small talk needed — real connection goes beyond words.
UK: Not making small talk doesn’t mean unfriendly
In the UK, there are clear boundaries around when it’s okay to talk to strangers.
Chatting someone up on the street might feel intrusive. They prefer to connect through introductions or in socially appropriate settings.
They’re actually open to conversation —
it’s not coldness, it’s caution.
Germany: One deep connection beats ten shallow ones
In many cultures,events are often about meeting more people. But in Germany, it’s all about depth over breadth. Instead of handing out tons of business cards, people prefer having a few meaningful, honest conversations.
For them, socializing isn’t about expanding your network — it’s about building trust that lasts.
Switzerland: Being alone ≠ being lonely
Switzerland values individualism —
personal space and privacy are sacred. Many people there genuinely enjoy solitude and don’t feel the need to have tons of friends. Socializing isn’t an obligation; it’s a choice. Having few (or no) friends doesn’t mean something’s wrong —
it’s just a different way of living.
Denmark: Friends aren’t your backup plan
In many Asian cultures, connections are seen as a kind of resource — people you can turn to when you need help. But in Denmark, friendships are built on shared values and genuine connection, not future favors. They don’t believe in “mutual usefulness” — they believe in equal, honest relationships.
New Zealand (Māori culture): Socializing is sharing your life story
In Māori culture, socializing isn’t about small talk — it’s about storytelling. People connect by sharing family roots, emotional ties to the land, and personal transformations. You might sit down and immediately hear someone’s relationship history across generations. To them, stories matter more than labels, and feelings matter more than facts.
Netherlands: Doing things together is socializing
In Dutch culture, people build relationships by working side by side. You’re more likely to bond while baking, crafting, or volunteering together than through long conversations.
Talking is just one tool — real connection happens when you collaborate.
What’s your social style?
There’s no one “right” way to socialize —
every culture has its own values and rhythms.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re not good at socializing, maybe you’ve just learned a narrow version of it. Socializing is simply how interesting people meet other interesting people.
Got a free weekend? Come try it for yourself.
