How To Meet New People After a Move
It might not pop up on your “to-do” list for a while, but meeting people after your move is also a big part of your actual move. This is especially true if you have moved away from your city, state or country. A long-distance move can mean bold, new choices and that typically involves meeting new people. If you’re feeling rusty on your interpersonal skills, here are a few tips on how to meet new people after a move.
Put Your Tech to Good Use
A quick and easy way to meet new people is to make use of social media and online networking apps. As an example, Meetup is a popular app that helps local groups come together based on shared interests. Also, you could start a Meetup group for newbies around town. Chances are that you’re not the only freshly relocated citizen in your new community.
There are also a variety of Facebook groups that feature community-based events or gatherings. A quick search for newcomers in your city is an easy way to find others who are also unpacking and looking to explore their new world. If you’re dealing with an international move, check out apps like Hello Talk. They are ideal for meeting locals while also trying to learn the language of your new land.
Take Advantage of Your New Job
Chances are, you or your spouse relocated to take advantage of a new job or career opportunity. If that’s the case, then your immediate work environment all but assures that new people will filter into your world. This could evolve into meeting other like-minded colleagues or friends of theirs. So, don’t be afraid of taking up that invitation to join co-workers for an after work drink or dinner.
Explore the Local Nightlife
This brings us to the next idea. Be sure to explore the local cafes, bars and dining establishments. In fact, a great way to strike up a conversation with strangers is to ask about favorite local dining spots. Natives are only too happy to share.
If you were a trivia night nerd in your previous hometown, then you can be sure there’s a local trivia night or three happening in your new place. If you love Karaoke, that should be an easy find. Look for places that attract a regular crowd, mingle and blend in.
Love Thy Neighbor
These days the neighborhood welcoming committee might not be as active as it once was, but you can be sure that at least a few neighbors will make an effort to meet with you and get to know you. If you want to beat them to the punch then maybe consider hosting a housewarming or casual get-together. This is a simple and organic way to welcome those neighbors into your world.
Unpack, Unwind and Give it Time
If you’re a bit shy about meeting new people after the move, then just give it time. You will be busy settling in, so you won’t really need that distraction. However, when you’re ready, there’s obviously a whole new world of people out there waiting to meet the new person in you.