You’ve just made the big move to a new job in a new city. This is the perfect chance to start fresh and develop personally and professionally. But even if your main reason for moving was to focus on self-discovery, you can’t fully enjoy your new surroundings by being alone 24/7. So, knowing how and where to look for friends — whether outside of work or at the office — is the first step to creating friendships. Here are some tips for networking in a new city.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and help out in the community. Sign up to work at the local animal or homeless shelter, or see what Habitat for Humanity or the Red Cross are doing in the area. This gives you a chance to connect with other people who are passionate about making the world a better place. And, who knows — you might just meet your future spouse through volunteer work.
Sign up for a class
Have you ever wanted to learn how to paint? Or how to play guitar? You can likely find a class or instructor who can teach you to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Even signing up for an exercise class like kickboxing or Zumba can help you meet new people — and help you discover a new favorite hobby. The more often you attend, the more likely you’ll be to make new friends.
Step out of your comfort zone
If you’re an introvert who feels more at ease spending weekends at home catching up with your favorite shows on Netflix than going to parties, you’re probably not comfortable asking a new acquaintance out for coffee. But being in a new city is a great time to do things you wouldn’t normally do. So, don’t be afraid to accept that party invitation from the barista at your new favorite café, or to ask your neighbor to lunch on Saturday.
Attend events
Be on the lookout for events around town that are perfect for socializing. Concerts, cultural events and conventions are great places to meet people. Conferences and corporate events can expand your personal and professional network — and can show your new employer that you’re serious about the industry. You can also look online for special interest social groups in your area at sites like Meetup.com.
Play it safe
Before you get too carried away with social activities, make sure you’ve taken care of everything you need in your new town. If you’ll be driving to work, switch your driver’s license and license plates over to your new state. While you’re waiting for your new employer’s benefits to begin, obtain a health insurance policy that covers you in your new state. For example, someone who recently moved to Florida should get a short term health insurance policy valid in Florida.
Moving to a new city is exciting, but it can be scary moving away from friends, family and familiarity. It helps to keep in contact with loved ones back home, but getting out there and meeting new people will make the transition to your new city that much easier.
Originally posted on October 1, 2013 @ 8:56 pm