Do you find yourself as the new kid on the block? Hopefully, you found an opportunity to speak with your potential neighbors before purchasing your new home, but now that you’re moved in it’s time to branch out and meet people. Even extroverts might find this unappealing, but it’s not as overwhelming as it may seem. Here are some tips for getting to know your neighbors with ease:
Say Hello
Seems obvious, I know, but a simple hello could open the door to some great conversation. Introduce yourself then maybe ask for advice or recommendations on nearby needs like dinner delivery, grocery stores or dry cleaners. It may seem like obnoxious small talk, but making this initial effort will show your neighbors you’re approachable and eager learn the community.
Find Common Ground
You’re bound to have something in common with that neighbor, it’s just a matter of figuring out what that might be. Maybe they have a supremely kept lawn to thrill your greenthumb, or maybe you spot them putting away a classic car that reminds you of someone. Look for a chance to open up a dialogue over those shared interests.
Walk Your Dog
Dog lovers make an easy audience. If you have one (or two or three), hopefully you are in a dog-friendly neighborhood with fellow furry friends. Walking your dog around the block will, sooner or later, lure them out of the woodwork. Simple conversation is inevitable - breed you have/ how old they are/ if it’s a boy or girl. Not only is this an amazingly easy way to meet a neighbor or two, but play your cards right and you may have found a potential dog-sitter for the next time you go on vacation.
Leverage Your Kids
Kids are more than just little parades of personality – they’re also, much like pets, great catalysts for socializing. Take them to the park or playground and bond with fellow neighbors/parents. When they ask if they can go play down the street with other kiddos, walk them down and introduce yourself to the parents. It's an easy and simple way to meet a new neighbor and a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with people your littles may be spending a lot of time with. For bonus points, try to pick their brain about surroundings that could affect your children – schools, sports, shady neighbors, whatever concerns you.
Plan a Par-tay!
Everyone loves food, duh. Hosting a barbeque or backyard gathering offers a casual and comfortable atmosphere with the promise of delicious grub. People turn out for grub. We usually throw one big party a year, in April or May, and take it as an opportunity to meet and invite neighbors... and hopefully forwarn to prevent any noise complaints and police visits! If weather or space make a BBQ impractical, then throw a small party instead. Either one gives you the opportunity to meet your neighbors at once while putting you in central position as host.
Be smart about your approach. Obviously filling your new home with a bunch of strangers poses a number of concerns, as does getting caught leering into your other people’s garages to see if they enjoy the same hobbies as you. Don’t do anything you’re not comfortable with. And don’t do anything that might make the neighbors uncomfortable. Ultimately, you’re all striving for the same thing – an enjoyable living situation – so chances are any efforts you make to demonstrate sharing that goal will be met with open arms.
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