How to Meet People in a New Town or City

Meeting people can be hard when you have moved to a new place. Here are some tips on how to make friends when you have relocated.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A local newspaper
• A computer
• Hobbies or interests
• A warm smile

1. Scan the paper for local events and meetings. These most often are published in the region or metro section, but sometimes appear in features or community. Find an event or meeting pertaining to something you'd enjoy (churches, clubs, support groups, planning committees and more) and plan to attend. These meetings will be filled with people who share similar interests and it will be easy to make friends there.
2. Go online and find your new town's chamber of commerce site. Often, these sites list tips and advice on meeting locals in your community. They also list area events and community happenings that are great places to meet others.
3. If you like coffee, try a local coffeehouse. Younger crowds often gather here to meet up and chat. Libraries and college campuses, too, often are a good place to meet up with others.
4. Keep a smile on your face and don't be afraid to approach people. Ask for directions or advice when necessary, and use that as an opportunity to strike up conversation. You may meet the occasional curmudgeon, but in general, people are friendly and like helping others.

Tips & Warnings

• Attend lots of events and meetings. Even if it doesn't go as well as you would expected the first few times, stay focused and keep trying. Persistence is key.
• A bar or nightclub may be fun, but be wary of the people you meet at these places. Never leave a bar or nightclub with someone you've just met, it could prove dangerous.