My personal experience is that 95% of players are friendly, but only 40% are actually willing to lend a hand anytime.
Also, if you want to make friends, don't wait for them to find you. You are one of many, it's easier if you say hello first and try to engage the conversation. Ask parties if you an join them, ask other solo players to join you, etc.

Numerous times, I've had new players ask me to join them or something. Almost every time, I gladly accept and help them. Even when I'm about to log out for the night and end staying longer!

The community is friendly, but shy. If you remember that, you won't have any trouble. (Also, there is the occasional jerk that calls other people noobs, but don't mind them. You don't want to hang out with someone like that anyway)