[nuancebydefault]

> I’ll invite an acquaintance to get a coffee or beer

In the past I was quito often very surprised/disappointed to yield the result you describe. A lot of people have busy lives. Chances that the acquaintance would randomly invite you back are low, unless you became good friends. There's some 'uncommon magick' or chemistry involved in becoming close friends. Don't take it personally.

My advice would be basically come into contact with a lot of people, ie

- taking up a hobby where other people are involved. You already have the benefit of a common interest.

- talk AND listen to 'random' people for example in a shop while waiting, at the gym, in the waiting room of the dentist etc. People tend to like and trust people who easily talk and listen with empathy.

- hang around with people of your same age.