7 Easy Ways To Meet Your Neighbors In Your Apartment Building
When you move into an apartment building, one thing that becomes clear in a hurry is that you’re surrounded by plenty of other people. Whether it’s a large, upscale apartment complex or a smaller, modest building, there are still lots of neighbors with whom you can be friends. However, due to today’s hectic pace of life, it can sometimes be hard to get to know those around you. If you’re wanting to meet your neighbors but aren’t sure of the best way to do so, here are some very easy steps you can take to find some new friends in your apartment building.
Throw a Party
If your apartment building has a pool or outside area for kids to play and people to gather, consider throwing an informal party as a way to meet everyone. By grilling some hamburgers and hot dogs, you can have a good meal while sitting around and talking with your new neighbors. To get as many people as possible to attend, try to hand-deliver the invitations, or simply make an attractive poster and place it on a bulletin board or other place where everyone will notice it as they pass by each day.
Walk Your Dog
If you’ve got a dog, take it for a walk around the grounds of your apartment building. Chances are, there will be other residents doing the same thing, which will give you the opportunity to strike up a conversation. Before you know it, you’ll have made a new friend, and probably found someone you can get together with for a combo dog walk now and then.
Host an “Open Apartment”
Much like having an open house when selling a home, pick an afternoon and host an “open apartment” at your place. For two or three hours, you can play host or hostess to whoever drops by, giving you the chance to socialize in an informal setting. And to make the occasion more inviting, have some great food available, such as fresh-baked cookies, or perhaps a few hot pizzas from the local pizza joint. By doing this and leaving your door open, you’re sure to attract some nearby neighbors.
Attend Building Meetings
If your apartment complex has regular resident meetings, plan on attending. Not only will this let you meet many people at once, but it will also help you stay abreast of any changes that may be forthcoming. By being at these meetings, your neighbors will not only get to know you, but see you are a resident who is truly interested in doing what’s necessary to have a safe and secure place to live.
Talk to People
Whether in the parking lot, elevator, laundry room, or other spot in or around your building, don’t be afraid to simply smile, say hello, and talk to the person next to you. While some people may not want to engage you in conversation, more than likely you’ll find plenty of friendly faces eager to talk.
Start a Book Club
If you enjoy reading, there’s a good chance some of your neighbors do as well. Therefore, try starting a book club for your apartment complex. By picking out a popular novel and putting up a poster in your building, there’s a good chance you’ll get an excellent turnout for your first meeting. Once you get started with this idea, all it will take is having a few people talk about how much fun they’re having, and soon you’ll be seeing more and more new members at each meeting.
Patronize Nearby Stores and Restaurants
If there are some stores and restaurants close to your apartment building, try shopping and eating there on a regular basis. By doing so, you’ll probably meet others from your building doing the same, which will give you the chance to introduce yourself and have a pleasant conversation.
By using a few or all of these suggestions, you may find yourself quickly becoming the most popular person in your apartment building. And if this happens, always remember you can never have too many friends.