Q: Dear Diane,
As a recent graduate, I decided now was the time to make the move from my familiar town to the city of Houston after being offered a position at a growing company. I do not regret my choice, but I am feeling a bit overwhelmed as I seek to build business relationships and personal friendships in a new place. My default has been to retreat to my apartment after work and Facetime friends back home. Any thoughts on how I can approach this dilemma?
-Katherine
A: Dear Katherine,
You will not regret taking this leap of faith as you set out on your career path. So exciting, and I know you will get more and more comfortable with your new surroundings. As for building relationships both in and out of the office, here are a few tips on where to begin…
Accept the invitation. Fight the urge to head home after a long day, instead taking your coworker up on their request to join them for a business event or young professionals happy hour. You do not have to stay for hours, and might make a valuable contact in the process.
Take the initiative. If your inbox is not inundated with personal invitations, that is your cue to ask someone if they would be interested in attending a leadership luncheon or other event together. You will get to know one another and may pick up some business tips in the process.
Step out of your daily routine. Join a club or volunteer with other like-minded people. Research creative ideas that you would not ordinarily gravitate towards. Opening the door to new experiences will keep you busy and give you current material to talk about at your next networking event.
Power down. Although it is important to keep in touch with family and longtime friends, spending too much time on technology can leave you feeling drained. Catch up and then set out to explore the city doing the things you love most. Your new BFF may be just a yoga mat or spin class away.
For more relationship building pointers, you may also find my article on The Huffington Post helpful, How to Make a Strong Introduction.
Good luck,
Diane