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Updated: August 25, 2025 How to

How to make connections and plug into a new community

By Katie Shorey, guest columnist

Relocating to a new place can feel daunting — especially when it comes to building a professional and personal network.

Katie Shorey of Live + Work in Maine
Photo / Provided
Katie Shorey

Having lived in cities like Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Chicago before moving back to Maine, I’ve learned that plugging into a new community requires intention, curiosity and a willingness to consistently show up.

With the start of fall — a season full of conferences, networking events and community gatherings — it’s the perfect time for newcomers to Maine to lean in. Here’s a playbook for how to build your network and feel connected faster.

Tap into alumni networks

One of the easiest ways to get started is to reach out to your college or university alumni office. Many schools organize regional meetups or have ambassadors in different cities. You’ll be surprised at how many doors open just by sending an email to your alumni coordinator.

Join young professional groups

If you’re early in your career or simply want to meet other engaged Mainers check out young professional organizations.

Groups like PROPEL (Portland), Uplift LA (Lewiston Auburn) and KV Connect (Waterville) are designed to connect peers through professional development events and volunteer opportunities. These groups are low-barrier entry points for making new friends and contacts.

Volunteer your skills (or your time)

Getting involved in the community is a great way to meet people and make an impact. Consider mentoring with organizations like Junior Achievement of Maine, SCORE or the Maine Mentor Network, which connect professionals with entrepreneurs and students.

Or explore opportunities with Girls on the Run or other nonprofits that align with your passions. Mainers like to roll up their sleeves, and volunteering is often where lasting connections are made.

Attend local events and conferences

Maine has a robust slate of annual gatherings that bring together business leaders, innovators and creatives. Your local town Chamber of Commerce is likely to have a running list, or check out the community events featured on Live + Work in Maine or Startup Maine’s websites.

These are not only great for learning what’s happening in the state, but also for serendipitous introductions. 

Explore industry-specific groups

Depending on your field, you might find specialized organizations to plug into. For example, Associated General Contractors of Maine has events and meets for those in (or curious about) the industry.

Creative professionals might connect through Creative Portland or arts councils. Whatever your industry, there’s often a Maine-based association or meetup.

Embrace the outdoors

Connection doesn’t always happen in a conference room.

Hiking clubs, community sports leagues and even cold-water dipping groups are increasingly popular ways Mainers connect. You might find that your hiking buddy becomes your best professional referral source.

Say 'yes' to it all (at least at first)

While networking events may not be everyone’s cup of tea, showing up matters in Maine.

Accepting that coffee invite, sending a note on LinkedIn, attending a panel or joining a book club can lead to unexpected opportunities. Mainers are focused on relationships more than transactional exchanges.

Worth the effort

Plugging into a new community takes time and effort, but Maine makes it easier than most places. People here genuinely want to help — but you have to take the first step. So, as the leaves change this fall, put yourself out there.

Attend the event. Join the group. Send the email. You’ll be glad you did.
 

About the author

Katie Shorey, a Mainebiz Outstanding Woman in Business honoree  in 2025, is the director of engagement at Live + Work in Maine and president of Startup Maine. She can be reached at katie@liveworkmaine.com.

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