5 Reasons Why You Should Join a Meetup Group in Your City Today

When I lived in the states I joined many Meetup groups online but never actually attended any events.

Why would I? I had friends. #NoNewFriends

This is so close-minded.

Moving abroad not knowing a single person obviously put me in a different position and mindset. Within my first week of being in Shanghai, I knew if I was going to stay sane I needed to meet people I actually enjoyed spending time with.

The best and easiest way to do this was to join a Meetup group. I believe joining a Meetup group is important when moving to a new city but I also don’t think it’s a bad idea no matter how long you’ve lived in your city.

Here are 5 reasons why you should join a Meetup group in your city today…

1. Meet New People

This one seems a little obvious but is by far the most important and number one reason to join a Meetup group.

Meeting new people is thrilling and addicting.

I am literally addicted to meeting people in this city. Everyone has a story, something to share, and something I can learn from.

Meetup groups allow you to meet a diverse group of people that you may not have otherwise met in your small circle or at regular hangouts.

By joining a Meetup group, you’ll obviously meet people. Some of them may become close friends but at the very least you’re sure to encounter people that make for an interesting story later!

2. Discover New Places

There is a Meetup group for every niche. From traveling, hiking, writing, clubbing, and honestly the list goes on. Depending on what type of Meetup you join you could possibly find a new trail, hidden art gallery, or new restaurant.

I have discovered so many new restaurants in different parts of the city that I otherwise would have never found on my own. Seriously, one of the dinners I went to was located in an alley. I would have never found it just walking down the street. It was a hidden gem that ended up having the best gourmet burgers ever!

Not only have the actual Meetup groups been held at restaurants I’ve never been to but I’ve met new friends that have shown me different parts of the city and hidden local gems.

Some day I hope to be a seasoned expat to show someone else the hot spots of Shanghai. Until then…it’s nice to meet people that don’t mind showing me around!

3. Gain Independence and Enhance Your Social Skills

Attending a Meetup group can be a little scary at first. You’re (possibly) in a new city showing up to a restaurant you’ve never been to by yourself.

This is a huge step out of your comfort zone.

Take it!

Now that you’ve taken this huge step, you have probably ignited some confidence.

It’s time to engage your social skills. Put them on steroids, seriously.

You can not go to a Meetup, sit in the corner, and not speak to anyone. No one is going to approach or take part in this behavior.

Many groups have ice breaker activities that will help but you should always have some ammunition under your belt just in case. One of the Meetup groups I regularly attend has a rule; the first hour you can not discuss what you do. (It’s used as an ice breaker activity later.)

This rule is a great way of encouraging us to talk about something besides work and finding other questions to get to know one another. It helps us connect on a different level and discuss our passions.

Try it at your next Meetup group or even when meeting someone new while you’re out.

Avoid the boring questions what do you do and where are you from? that society has taught us are important things about a person. They aren’t. They enable us to create boxes and labels for one another.

Make a mental list of interesting questions to get a conversation started and keep it going.

What’s your favorite thing about living in (insert city here)?

What brings you to (insert city here)?

What’s your favorite restaurant in (insert city here)?  

Where is your favorite destination you’ve traveled to?

**Alternatively use one of your hobbies to connect and ask questions- mine are obviously eating and traveling!

“You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when trying something new”

4. Find New Interests

Joining a Meetup group can lead to finding new interests by simply meeting diverse people who introduce you to their passions and interests.

Since you’re out there meeting new diverse people instead of saying “that’s not my thing“, why don’t you check out the MMA gym your new friend invited you to or join that monthly book club.

It sounds super cliche but you never know if you’re going to like something until you try it.

You may have just found your new hobby while meeting your next travel partner!

5. Network

Networking is so important. I can’t stress enough how important it is.

Many people have the wrong idea or outlook about networking.

Networking is not just for business. Do not just attend a networking event when you are looking for a new job. Networking is important to find new opportunities within your community and to enhance your passions.

Attending a networking event, or Meetup event should be something you make a habit of. It doesn’t have to be every week or even every month but you should try to put yourself out there to meet new people a few times a year.

You truly never know who you are going to meet and how the relationship will develop.

Start meeting new people, exploring your city, and perhaps finding yourself! You have absolutely nothing to lose, join a Meetup group today.

Have you attended a Meetup event recently? Share your experiences below.