When Young Professionals Relocate – How to Create a New Social Network

The possibilities seem endless when moving to a new city, but so are the questions: where will you work, where will you live, and most of all – how do you start to create a new social network?  Moving can be a complex and lonely experience as people try to manage the logistics, orient themselves with the layout of their new city, negotiate employment landmines and adjust to a new social reality.

As an ‘outsider’ it can be difficult to know how to begin to make friends.  The office is an excellent starting point, but not everyone is fortunate enough to have a job offer immediately when they arrive in a new city.

Paramount Properties brings you some social networking suggestions to ease your transition to a new city.

Join a Gym

Good for the head, heart, body and soul, the gym also provides an easy environment in which to meet others.  The camaraderie that comes from collectively punishing yourselves in an aerobic or weight-lifting class is unbeatable.  Strike up a conversation with the person on the treadmill next you.  See where it takes you.

Prominent Canadian gyms include Goodlife, YMCA, Florida Fitness, Gym Max and Curves.

Running Clubs

Although some runners prefer to conserve their air and don’t make great conversationalists, members of running clubs are usually very social when the run is done.  Swap stories while basking your tired legs in an endorphin high.  Running is also a great way to cover a lot of ground and explore a new city.

Book Clubs

If you’re a fan of literature, a book club is the perfect place to meet others who also like to lose themselves in a good novel. Take time out from your busy life as you momentarily escape from the “real world,” and then discuss the book and its themes with other people in the club. It doesn’t matter if you agree or disagree with the others about the true motives of the protagonist – the main thing is that you’re striking up conversations with new and interesting people. Another perk about book clubs is that you can sometimes get the chance to hear an author speak about his or her book. This can be very insightful and will give you and your new colleagues more to talk about.

Join a Sports Club

Hockey, basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, golf and ultimate frisbee leagues offer excellent opportunities to meet people, get fit, have a great time and even get out of town if your team participates in inter-city tournaments.  Find a sport you’ve always wanted to play and get involved.

Theatre Clubs

Assuming another identity and putting yourself on stage in front of the whole world may seem risky, but the benefits you reap will be even greater.  Theatre is a promising way to meet outgoing people.  Also, once you have mastered performing to a crowd, social introductions or job interviews will be a breeze!

However, if stepping into the spotlight is the last thing you would ever do, you can still enjoy the theatre experience as a member of the audience. Theatre/social clubs often have access to discounted tickets, and members will usually meet up after the show for food, drinks and a hearty discussion about what you just saw.

Volunteer for Charity

Help others and help yourself at the same time.  United Way and Red Cross are two large and deserving causes.  Local food banks are another place where you can see up front how your contribution makes a difference to the lives of struggling families.

Connect with Cultural and Religious Organizations

Most Canadian cities have strong Chinese, Greek, Jewish, Muslim, Italian, German, Hindu and ex-pat communities that host special festivals and events.  Familiarity breeds comfortability, so seek out those common ties and make yourself known.

Coffee Shops and Pubs

You never know who you’ll meet during Happy Hour or at your local Starbucks, Bridgehead or Second Cup … give it a try and see what happens!

Good friendships take time, but the more you get involved in your community, the more at home you’ll feel and the more stories you’ll have to share.  By the time you’ve made your way through this list, you’ll be a professional ice breaker.  Good luck!