Making friends in a new city is not as easy as it may seem, especially for adults. But it doesn’t have to be difficult either. Even though, as we grow up, we tend to get too preoccupied with our careers and everyday errands in order to make new friends, there are still ways in which you can up your chances to bring some new people into your life. Here is a quick guide that can help you do that.
The people who live in your new neighborhood are the ones you’ll be seeing almost every day. So why not make the most of it and actually befriend some of them? Here are some simple steps for doing so.
Don’t hesitate to initiate the first contact. Once you’ve moved in and settled down, simply knock on your neighbors’ doors and introduce yourself. Surely this won’t turn you into BFFs right away, but it is a great first step and it shows that you’re interested in getting to know them.
If possible, organize a small get-together and invite some neighbors over. Make some food or simply order a couple of pizzas and mingle. Do your best to get to know them better – show interest in what they are talking about, ask questions, and share your stories. This will also give you a pretty good idea of who you would like to pursue a friendship with, and who will most likely remain an acquaintance.
Even more than your neighbors, you will see your coworkers (or classmates, if you’re still in school) pretty much on a daily basis. What’s more, having a good relationship with them will create a healthy and relaxed work environment. Try to be as engaging as possible without disrupting your coworkers’ workflow. Inviting them for after-hours drinks might be a good idea and will make for a great first step. Moving out for the first time can be a challenge and it is easier if you have some warm, well-intended people in your corner.
Do you have any hobbies you like spending your free time on? Then why not turn them into social activities and bond with others who share similar interests. Make some time to join a class and learn a foreign language, crocheting, sculpting, or pretty much anything else you’d like. Bonding with others who share similar interests and activities is a surefire way to create friendships.
Depending on where you’re moving to, and the reasons why you moved there in the first place, there might be a chance you already have someone in the area. If so, reach out to them and see if they can help you meet someone. Even if you don’t know anyone in your new city, your connections back home might be able to help. When you share the news that you’re moving, ask whether they can connect you with anyone in the city you’re going to.
Of course, attending events that are visited by a large number of people could be a great opportunity to meet someone. However, not every event is worth the shot. For example, starting up a conversation in the middle of a movie in a theater will probably not go too well. But doing so at a sports game will likely yield better results.
Festivals and shows are great for meeting those with similar interests. However, attending such an event on your own can be a little scary, which is why you should probably try to make some friends in another way first and then bring them to a concert. Perhaps some of your coworkers might be interested?
Local communities often organize smaller events for the families and individuals living in the area. Ask around if there are any such events coming up soon. This could include charity events for different purposes, local shows and concerts, sporting events, county fairs, and more.
One of the most important rules when trying to make friends after moving is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Even if you’re being invited to something you think you won’t enjoy too much, consider taking the offer. You might end up having a good time after all. And if not, the worst-case scenario is that you got to spend time with a prospective friend, albeit not in the way you’d choose.
Of course, you can always turn to the internet to meet someone. From social media such as Facebook and Instagram to social apps designed specifically for these scenarios, your options are endless. In fact, some of these apps are designed especially for users who share certain interests, lifestyles, or preferences. For example, Peanut is an app designed for moms, and it is great for all those moms that have little time to make friends after moving with toddlers. Meet My Dog allows you to meet fellow dog-lovers and owners.
You might not be looking for a date, just a friend, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful when meeting with strangers online. Always arrange to first meet them in a public place where there is a lot of people and, if possible, during the day. Luckily, there are apps that help you get to know individuals without having to get together one-on-one. For example, you can use We3 to create groups of three people with common interests.
Now that you know how to go about this task and build a new social circle in a strange environment, it’s time to move! All you have to do is find a reliable, professional company that can provide you with services such as moving, packing, auto transport, and storage. That way, you won’t have to worry about a thing!
