Starting from Scratch
So, you’re moving to a new city. You don’t have too many friends in the city, and you don’t even have a permanent, long-term job. What’s a Gen Y’er to do?
For many young professionals, this is a reality. It’s true that young people will have more jobs and career changes than older generations, and this is also the time to explore new cities and places. We’re young, we have fewer commitments than we ever will … if you have the opportunity to move to a new place, it could be worth it to give it a shot.
But. How are you going to meet people? People in your field, people with whom you share interests, etc etc…?
This might sound a bit hokey and trite, but consider joining a running club, cycling club or kickball team. I have a friend who, right after she moved to New York, joined Team in Training to begin training for her first marathon. She met a ton of people and continues to remain active in a New York running club.
If you went to a big state school, find out where the alumni go to watch football or basketball games in your new city. You’ll automatically have something in common with certain bar’s frequent patrons.
Join networking and/or trade associations. Many offer student discounts, and some even offer discounts if you’re unemployed or fresh out of college. They exist solely to connect people with similar interests and careers, so take advantage of the valuable networking opportunities there. Many even have access to job openings in their industries before other job boards and websites.
When you’re in a new city, it’s important to put yourself out there and not be afraid to make connections. It can be daunting to move to a place where you know no one, and it can be especially difficult if you’re not naturally outgoing. But moving to a new city can give you the opportunity to make a fresh start, begin with a clean slate and try new things. Whether you move for a job, a significant other or for no reason in particular, take every chance you get to meet new people. And, quite frankly, it doesn’t even matter if they’re in your desired industry or not. You never know who knows whom.
About the Author
Shannon Otto is a freelance writer and marketing professional based in Atlanta. A forward-thinking communicator, she's fueled by coffee, yoga and the thrill of a deadline. Shannon graduated from the University of Georgia in 2009 with a bachelors degree in journalism and is a passionate believer in the power of networking.
