While there is no rule written anywhere that dictates that you absolutely MUST know your neighbors, it is often helpful to have a nodding acquaintance with many people in your apartment building, and better still to be on good terms with even one or two neighbors. They come in handy when you need someone to feed your cat while you are on vacation, or need a hand carrying groceries up the stairs. Here are a few tips to help you break the ice and get things rolling!
Throw A Party: Always a hit when making friends, invite your neighbors over for a party! You don’t need to go overboard and hire a DJ and catering company, but simply having a group of people over for hors d’oeuvres and chit chat can be really fun. Alcohol isn’t required but goes a long way to helping people relax and be social.
Elevator Socializing: The elevator is usually quiet because it makes many people uncomfortable with the close proximity and awkward silence. Small talk is a great way to at least get on friendly terms with a few neighbors, and elevators are ideal places to start a short conversation. Talk about the weather if nothing else comes to you, but elevator small talk can help build a neighborly friend.
Common Ground: Apartment communities often have communal perks: a pool, a laundry mat, a dog park, a gym. Don’t be shy about participating in these amenities. While watching your dog frisk around you can talk about your beloved canine with a fellow enthusiast. Even talking about the apartment building or the local traffic commute can get a friendship going.
It may feel a little odd at first, but don’t be discouraged. Having neighbors who like you is important, because you never know when you might need a cup of sugar!