A move from an urban setting to a small town can be daunting. Newcomers to many small towns learn that residents can be a close-knit group. Families may be large with extended branches into what may seem like half the homes in town. Long time residents may have old connections with their doctor, dentist, child’s teachers, and other professionals that newcomers lack. It’s common to feel like an outsider but there are ways to network and become part of the local circle.
The first step is to be friendly
First, be friendly. Upon arrival in town, get started. The first step is to find a home. Whether that home is a rental unit or a house purchased through a realtor, it’s the beginning of a network.
The realtor or landlord can point new residents in the right direction to connect utilities, find furniture, and even hire contractors if needed. Inquire about any services necessary whether it's someone to clean on Tuesdays or a teenager to cut the lawn. Chances are, that first contact can help make connections.
Meet the neighbors. Don’t be bashful. Introduce yourself to the neighbors and explain why you chose their community to call home. Lifelong residents will feel flattered that you selected their town as a new home. Ask for advice about where to shop for groceries or who to call when you need a plumber.
Call the local Welcome Wagon or join the Newcomers Club.
Around The Town
Get out and about. Go the supermarket. Talk to the butcher and ask for advice on the best meat cuts. Ask the produce manager about specials. Talk with the cashier and indicate that you’re new in town. Be friendly and get acquainted. Visit the local library and take out a card. Stop by the video store to rent a movie. Eat at one of the local restuarants and if the meal is good, tell someone! They’ll remember the compliment and you may make a new friend.
Get to know co-workers. If your arrival came through a job transfer, get to know your new co-workers. If you found the job after a move, get acquainted with them. Learn the ropes in a new position and become familiar.
Go to church. Find a church of your faith and visit. If necessary, shop around until you find a church home. Stay for coffee hour after the service or enroll the kids in Sunday School. Before long, you’ll identify church members in business. When you need a dentist, appliance repairman, or helping hand, it’s likely that there may be one within the congregation.
Meet people and greet them. Before long you’ll feel right at home and you’ll be part of the local small town network.