So, you've just graduated, secured your dream job, and are moving to a new city. You're kickstarting your career and want to do the same for your love life. The good news is that dating, though similar to filling out a job application and keeping your fingers crossed you performed well at the assessment centre, is far easier, and a lot more fun. But where do you start?
Take love into your own hands
If you want to find romance you'll significantly boost your chances if you seek it out rather than waiting for it to find you. We won't deny it, making the first move, whether on or offline, is always a little intimidating. But if you strike up a charming and friendly conversation with a stranger they'll often be flattered, and if, like you, they're on the lookout for romance, they'll might even be relieved that someone else took the plunge for them. The more you do it, the more confident you'll get, which will do wonders for your work life too.
Get on the tourist trail
Kill two birds with one stone by checking out the must-see places in your new city and keeping an eye out for other people that are new to the area and are doing the same thing. If you meet each other at an art gallery, or famous monument, you'll know you share two things in common; a love of culture and the fact you're both newbies - and as we all know the first step in every blooming romance is finding common ground.
Try something new
If you want a more organic way of meeting someone than approaching them in the street, involve yourself in new hobbies and even volunteer work. It will increase your chances of meeting someone who shares your lifestyle and passions, as well as offering you an opportunity to broaden your interests, giving you more to talk about. If that's not enough to convince you, it'll also be a revitalising break from your new work life.
Keep your head up and your eyes open
Shyness can often drive people to look at the ground; not only does this mean you won't spot anyone, but decreases your likelihood of being noticed. Push yourself to look up and make eye contact. After all, love can be found in the most unlikely of places.
Don't be afraid to mix up your type
New city, new job, new type? Let's be honest, we're creatures of habit, we find something we like and we stick to it, and while there's nothing wrong with that, it means you're missing out on the potential to find someone who you click with even better. If you usually go for outgoing, sporty brunettes, give introvert blondes with a love of music a chance. You might surprise yourself.
Put the signals out among your friends
We're not always confident enough to approach someone, sometimes we need a helping hand, and who better to provide one than your friends? We're not talk about wing-manning, though we certainly wouldn't discourage it; we're talking about telling your friends that you're on the look-out for romance and finding out if they know anyone who they think you'd hit it off with.
Be yourself
It's great to explore new areas and new interests, but it's important to stay true to yourself. Starting something on an unauthentic foundation will only lead to complications down the line. As cliché as it may sound, it's always best to be yourself, it's the path to being more confident, comfortable and making a true connection.