try going to a local library once a week, or a gym, a museum, a thrift store, cafe, etc. if you find you like the vibe of a certain place, hang out there and be pleasant with the employees, after a while, they will remember you and will likely chat with you
this is more of a method to get used to talking to people, of course an employee is getting paid to talk to you, but in my own experience, i love taking to regulars!