Whether you’re moving to a new city, a new job, or just want
to expand your social circle, these five tips can help you
meet new people wherever you go.
1.Talk to Everyone – after years of watching a friend meet
people easily everywhere he went, I realized his secret: he
talks to everyone. I don’t mean just the cute mail guy, or
the girl walking her dog. I mean everyone. Whether it’s
the older lady crossing the street, your new apartment
manager, or the drug store clerk, make it a point to say
something to everyone you pass. You never know when you
might have something great in common.
2.Smile – A smile is the best way to let people know that
you’re open to talking to them. Particularly if you find it
hard to start a conversation, a smile can help you get the
other person to start the conversation.
3.Have something to say – Okay, I know it’s corny, but you
CAN talk about the weather. No matter who you are or where
you are, there’s something to say about the weather. Living
in sunny San Diego, I usually say “It’s gorgeous outside
today – wish I were out there!” or something along those
lines. This lets people know that you like the outdoors,
and that you’ve got a positive attitude. This works whether
it’s raining (gee, we really needed this rain), snowing
(wow, the skiing will be great this year), or cloudy (it’s
nice a cool out today!). Don’t want to discuss the weather?
Discuss a current event. Read up on the latest celebrity
trial, natural disaster, or scientific breakthroughs, and
you’ll always have something to say. In line at the grocery
store, you can always comment on the magazine cover
stories.
4.Ask Questions – You’re new in town, take advantage of it!
Ask people where the best sports bar is, which museum to
visit first, or where to find the perfect margarita, and
you’ll get the ball rolling to meeting a new friend.
5.Compliment, compliment, compliment – You should never do
this if it’s not sincere, but a compliment is always a great
conversation starter. And, it starts the conversation on a
positive note, so people are already responding favorably to
you. Tell the waitress her shoes are great, compliment your
neighbor’s car, let a clerk know she’s doing a great job.
About the Author
Sadie Peterson has helped hundreds of people meet new friends. Her website, http://www.aroundtownsandiego.org,
helps members meet each other and explore San Diego.