Have you ever moved to a new neighborhood before? If so there is a good chance that you have experienced the stress and uncertainty of adjusting to new surroundings. Putting yourself in your new neighbors shoes will help motivate you to take steps to alleviate their concerns by extending a warm welcome to the community. In connection with this here is 3 practical do’s and don’ts in connection with welcoming new neighbors.
Do #1: Figure Out Whose Moving In
The first step in figuring the best way to make your new neighbors feel welcome is to ask yourself who is moving in. Are they a family with children? Are they newlyweds? Are they a retired older couple? This information might be discreetly ascertained by asking the real estate agent selling the house or even other neighbors.
Don’t #1: Be Nosy
There is nothing wrong with being curious and trying to find out appropriate information about your new neighbors. This info can be helpful in making them feel welcome. That being said, you want to make sure that you don’t ask questions that are none of your business. This can also be extended to when you meet your new neighbors in person. You don’t want to unduly pry into their personal matters.
Do #2: Introduce Yourself in Person
A day or two after your new neighbors move in it would be a nice gesture to go over and introduce you and your family to them. This will give you the opportunity to learn more about them. It will also allow them to ask you any questions that they have about the community. For example you can let them know about any amenities in the area or you can offer practical assistance to help them get settled in.
Don’t #2: Overstay Your Welcome
When introducing yourself you want to remember that your new neighbors may still be going through the stress of trying to settle into their new home. With that in mind it would be wise to make that initial visit brief. You would also want to avoid engaging in any kind of negative gossip about your neighbors. This would be an unwanted imposition of their time and can promote negative feelings.
Do #3: Extend Kind Gestures
Etiquette expert Emily Post and SafeWise community manager Elli Bishop offer a number of possible gift and gesture suggestions that could help in welcoming new neighbors. They include the following:
- Baked goods
- A package including takeout menus and other local sites
- A bouquet of flowers
- Host a welcome dinner party
Along with those suggestions you may come up with other creative ways to welcome your new neighbors. If you have children you could get them involved with the brainstorming process.
Don’t # 3: Make Them Feel Uncomfortable
When offering kind gestures and assistance it is good to remember that you are still strangers. Let them know that you are willing to help, but don’t become an imposition. You can also show concern for them when offering gifts and gestures. For example you might keep in mind potential allergies if you are giving bake goods. If you are inviting them to a welcome dinner you would want to keep in mind any dietary restrictions.
The following do’s and don’ts in welcoming new neighbors will go a long way in helping any new arrivals in your community feel welcome. Along with promoting a positive sense of community it could also lead to lifelong friendships.