The Buddy Search system uses advanced algorithms to suggest potential buddies based on your mutual connections, making it easier to find people you may know or want to connect with in your wellness journey.
How to Access Buddy Search
Primary Access Point
Navigate to the Account Tab – Tap the account icon in the bottom navigation bar
Find the Buddies Section – Look for the "Buddies" card that shows your current buddy avatars
Tap the Buddies Card – This opens the comprehensive Buddy Search screen
🚀 How to Use Buddy Search
Real-Time Search Functionality
Search Bar – At the top of the Buddy Search screen, you'll find a search input field
Start Typing – Begin typing the name of the person you want to find
Instant Results – Get real-time search results as you type (with smart debouncing)
Browse Suggestions – View AI-powered buddy suggestions below the search bar
AI-Powered Buddy Suggestions
"People You May Know" Section – Shows up to 6 suggested buddies based on mutual connections
Mutual Buddy Count – Each suggestion shows how many buddies you have in common
Smart Filtering – Suggestions are automatically filtered to show only relevant, public profiles
See All Button – Tap to view all available suggestions in a full-screen modal
🔍 Search Features
Real-Time Search
Instant Results – Get search results as you type (after 1 character)
Smart Debouncing – Prevents excessive API calls while maintaining responsiveness
Cohort-Based Filtering – Search results are automatically filtered to your organization
Profile Information – See names, profile pictures, and mutual buddy counts
Advanced Filtering
Public Profiles Only – Search results show only users with public profiles
Organization Matching – Results are limited to users within your same cohort
Exclude Existing Connections – Won't show users you're already connected with
Real-Time Status – Shows current connection status (buddy, pending request, etc.)
👥 How to Connect with a Buddy
From Search Results
View Profile – Tap on any search result to see detailed profile information
Add Buddy – Tap the "+" button to send a buddy request
Wait for Approval – The user will receive your request and can accept or decline
From Suggestions
Browse Suggestions – Scroll through the "People You May Know" section
View Mutual Connections – See how many buddies you have in common
Add Buddy – Tap "Add Buddy" on any suggestion card
See All Options – Use the "See All" button to view all available suggestions
📱 Buddy Search Interface
Main Sections
Search Bar – Real-time search with instant results
Buddy Requests – View and manage incoming/outgoing buddy requests
My Buddies – See your current buddy connections
People You May Know – AI-powered suggestions based on mutual connections
Profile Cards
Profile Picture – User's avatar or default BetterBot image
Name – Display name or "BetterYou Member" if not set
Mutual Buddies – Number of buddies you have in common
Action Buttons – Add Buddy, Challenge (for existing buddies), or status indicators
🔒 Privacy and Profile Settings
Public vs. Private Profiles
Public Profiles – Can be found in search and seen by other users
Private Profiles – Only visible to approved buddies
Profile Control – You can change your profile privacy settings anytime
What's Visible
Public Users – Name, profile picture, mutual buddy count
Private Users – Limited information until connection is established
Your Privacy – Control what others see about your profile
💡 Pro Tips for Finding Buddies
Use the Search Effectively
Start with Names – Search for people you know by name
Check Suggestions – Browse the AI-powered suggestions regularly
Look for Mutual Connections – Higher mutual buddy counts often indicate better connections
Build Your Network
Send Requests Thoughtfully – Personalize your buddy requests when possible
Engage with Suggestions – Don't just rely on search; explore the suggestions
Stay Active – Regular activity helps the algorithm suggest better matches
Privacy Considerations
Set Your Profile Public – Makes it easier for others to find and connect with you
Review Privacy Settings – Ensure your profile shows the information you're comfortable sharing
Be Selective – Only accept requests from people you want to connect with
🎯 Finding the Right Buddies
Look for These Indicators
High Mutual Buddy Count – More mutual connections often mean better compatibility
Active Profiles – Users with recent activity are more likely to engage
Similar Goals – Look for users who might share your wellness objectives
Connection Strategies
Start with Suggestions – The AI suggestions are often the best starting point
Use Search for Specific People – Perfect for finding people you already know
Build Gradually – Don't feel pressured to connect with everyone at once
Need Help?
If you have questions about using Buddy Search:
Check the Help Center in the app for detailed information
Contact Support for search-specific questions
Use the "Give Feedback" option to suggest improvements
Start building your wellness network today! Whether you're looking for accountability partners, workout buddies, or wellness support, the enhanced Buddy Search feature makes it easier than ever to find and connect with like-minded people in your organization.