Moving to a new home can be exciting and also be nerve-wracking as you don’t know people on your street.
Recent research revealed that only one in three people bother introducing themselves to their new neighbors once they move in.
But it shouldn’t be that way.
So, Is it Weird to Introduce Yourself to Your New Neighbors?
No. In fact, it is a good gesture. Many people introduce themselves to their neighbors because of their own gains. Remember that when you need help, people around you are your immediate contact. But besides that, you can introduce yourself to your neighbors because they are your community. You don’t want them to look at you weirdly whenever you drive or walk by.
So why don’t people introduce themselves? When they introduce themselves to their neighbors, many people think they are allowing them to walk into their houses often and chitchat.
For this reason, many people that like to stay private don’t introduce themselves to prevent neighborly intrusions.
In a perfect world, the existing neighbors should be the ones to introduce themselves to their new neighbors and even offer to help.
However, if you don’t see them coming to you, go over to them, say hi and let them know the house you occupy.
How Do You Create Opportunities to Meet Your Neighbors?
It is one thing to want to introduce yourself to your neighbors and another to find the neighbors to introduce yourself to.
Here are some things to do:
1. Spend Time Outside
Spending time in your new house is nice.
But, you won’t meet your neighbors if you are always locked indoors. Get outside and explore your new surroundings.
You can do so without wasting time and looking weird. For instance, you can perform specific tasks like washing your car outside.
Or you can grab your favorite book and flip through the pages in your front yard.
2. Throw a Party for Your Neighbors
Another way you can meet those around you is by hosting a party and inviting them. You don’t have to do anything expensive.
It can be a simple dinner or high tea.
When inviting guests, prioritize those you will be meeting more often.
It will also be nice to introduce your family to them as well.
3. Attend Community Functions
These functions are mainly designed to build and improve social relationships among people that live in the same place.
Therefore, attending them is a wise step to getting to know those around you.
How Can You Introduce Yourself to Your Neighbors?
When introducing yourself, you must keep several things in mind to ensure that the process is smooth for you. These include;
1. Don’t Overdo it
Please always remember that these are not yet your friends. You have just met these people.
So keep their comfort on top of your mind. Avoid asking personal questions at this stage or making funny remarks, as it is still early.
2. Keep the First Meeting Short
You may find the person already charming and would want to know them more, but your first interaction should be short and straightforward.
Don’t walk extra lengths for your neighbor to like you. You will earn this impression with time.
But in the first meeting, introduce yourself and let them know they can come to you for help anytime.
3. Don’t Be Pushy
While you should be friendly, polite and talkative when approaching your neighbor, you shouldn’t be too pushy.
The first conversations should be generic. Leave it to them to continue with the chatting or invite you to a cup of coffee.
4. Be Yourself
We all strive to make a good first impression. But, you don’t need to overdo it.
The idea is for your neighbor to know the real you. This is important if you want the relationship to be long-lasting.
Please remember you aren’t obligated to pretend to be someone you aren’t.
5. Find People of Similar Interest
You can start by observing your neighbors and then figuring out what makes you connect with them.
Then, you can friend request them on social media to learn about them.
You can also join social media channels of your community or sign up for local membership.
Alternatively, you can ask them whether they watch your favorite show and invite them to a movie night if they do.
Talking about TV shows, music preferences, or favorite recipes is an excellent way of building a conversation with your neighbors.
Such topics will give you a chance to know who you can relate to well and how you can organize a get-together to learn more about your neighbors.
What If You Don’t Have Anything in Common?
You may not always find people with the same interest as you.
Don’t let this deter you.
You can walk up to the front door and introduce yourself or invite them to a small gathering.
The aim is to let your neighbors know you have moved in and where you moved from.
If these activities feel uncomfortable, you can ask about recycling centers and garbage pickup in the neighborhood.
Remember that while you might think that you have nothing in common, you actually do: you live in the same neighborhood.
And this is a great ground to start a conversation.
Lastly, remember to be patient.
Soon, you will start bonding with your neighbors and helping each other out.
References
https://www.movu.ch/ratgeber/en/new-neighbors/
https://www.cityway.com/blog/2018/09/04/ways-to-introduce-yourself-to-your-apartment-neighbors/
