When you move to a new city, it can be difficult adjusting to this new place, especially if you do not know anyone else who lives there, or anyone outside of your immediate family. It can be daunting trying to go out and meet new people as an adult, especially when you have work and your family to focus on as well. However, it is also important to create a strong network wherever you’re living, so you can spend time with different people and have a social life you can rely on when you’re looking for something to do.
Approach it with positivity
Though you may feel discouraged before you even begin your effort to meet new people, it’s important that you do not give up. It may take a while to find the group you fit in with, but if you work at it, you’ll definitely find them. A positive mindset will also draw people to you and make it easier to talk to strangers and find out if the two of you could hit it off and become friends.
Take advantage of existing contacts
Chances are that you at least know a few people living in this new place or will quickly meet people through your job. Take advantage of these few connections to find out about events lots of people attend, networking opportunities, or even just get to know those people better. Getting to know the people you work with is a good idea, since you’ll spend a lot of time around them.
Find outlets for your hobbies
Maybe you’ve always wanted to join a book club or a community basketball group. Many cities and towns have groups that focus on certain hobbies. Even if you currently don’t have a hobby you can find a group for, pick up one that allows you to attend meetings with other people and discuss something you have in common. It gives you something to do and also a way to meet new people.
Make small talk
Generally, people are pretty closed off and do not go out of their way to talk to someone sitting next to them on the train or that they see every day when they get coffee. Strike up a conversation and you may meet someone you really like. An added bonus is that it’s just nice to be kind to people and could really brighten their days.
Join a networking group
Networking groups have become fairly popular lately, whether it’s for a specific profession, industry, or age group. Young professional groups are very common in many areas and you don’t have to be fresh out of college to become a member! Attending networking events is the perfect time to meet new people, especially since the purpose of the event is to talk and get to know one another.
Ultimately, there are lots of ways you can approach meeting new people after you move somewhere, so get out there and explore your options!