If you have a social, outgoing personality then meeting people in your apartment complex probably sounds like a fun experience for you. However, for many people it can be just plain intimidating and they’d rather spend time keeping to themselves in their apartment than have to face new people and try to make small talk. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are some easy, non-intrusive ways that you can meet those living around you in apartments in Chico and Redding - and maybe even make a few friends while you’re at it.

Don’t be shy

We’re not advocating you go door to door giving a personal sales pitch, but try introducing yourself when passing people you recognize in the complex. For example, while getting your mail, taking out the trash or walking out to the parking lot. You don’t have to have an in-depth conversation, just a quick “hi” or small talk. Some conversation starters might include:

• Hi. So, how long have you lived in the complex?
• Good morning…do you know where they are holding the free breakfast?
• [Smiling] How are you? We seem to get our mail at the same time, where in the complex do you live?
• You off to work? We always seem to pass each other. Have a good day!
• Do you ever go to the social events at the complex? Are they any fun?

Make it a point to try and start introducing yourself during the first couple of weeks after you move in or you notice someone new move in. If you wait too long, and consistently pass familiar faces, it might seem awkward to suddenly strike up a conversation.

Go to complex social events

Apartments in Redding and Chico often schedule social events for residents. You can find them listed in your monthly apartment newsletter, posted on fliers in the clubhouse, or on sandwich boards positioned strategically in the parking lot. These events might include:

• Breakfasts
• Movie nights
• Theme nights
• Barbecues
• Game night

These events almost always involve free food, so why not make a yummy addition. It can be a good ice breaker to offer someone the latest appetizer recipe from Pinterest you tried.

Use amenities to your advantage

The people using the amenities at your Chico or Redding apartment have to be a part of the complex, or at least visiting someone in the complex, in order to have access to them so you already have something in common. The best amenities to use to meet new people in the complex are:

• Swimming pool – everyone is relaxed and having a good time while swimming. Why not start up a game of Marco Polo?
• Jacuzzi – you’re already sitting in close proximity to someone. Instead of avoiding each other’s stares, try striking up a conversation while relaxing your muscles.
• Exercise room – some people don’t like to be bothered while getting their sweat on, but if someone else is in the exercise room at least acknowledge them by smiling or saying hi. If you see them there consistently at the same time you’re there, it’ll be easy to get a conversation going, or maybe even start exercising together and just casually chatting.
• Playground or Walking Path – if you have kids they’ll probably meet new people for you! Especially if there's a playground at the complex where they will easily start chatting and playing with other kids. If you have pets and take them for a walk around the complex or out to do their business, they can be the best accessory to meet new people. Who doesn’t love a cute, furry dog or cat?

When trying to get acquainted with other people living in apartments in Chico, Redding or the greater Northern California area, don’t expect to be best friends with everyone. Instead, have realistic expectations that it might take a few tries before getting on a friendly basis with others in the complex. Don’t be afraid to initiate. It’s surprising what a simple smile and hello can do.