Online dating has become a thing in recent years thanks to the advanced technology, but that doesn’t mean in-person and virtual singles mixers are not cool anymore. You probably heard of speed dating. If not, speed dating is a very interesting and unique way to meet new people in a very relaxed environment.
And it’s called speed dating for a reason. You have just a few minutes (usually 5) to talk to a person, after which you will change spots and talk to the next person, and so on. The number of people involved depends on the event. If by any chance, you happen to like someone, you can choose to exchange numbers and go on an official date.
Speed dating is a great way to meet new people, especially for busy people who don’t have a lot of time for dating but still want the chance to create connections and talk to interesting people.
If you’re interested in speed dating, read on to find 5 tips that will help you create a special bond!
Make sure you pick the right speed dating event
Speed dating has become very famous these days, so there are a lot of personal and virtual events, you just have to find the right one for you. Firstly, you need to make sure you’re choosing a speed dating event where you could meet people your age, as there are a lot of events for each age group. Also, if you’re interested in getting to know people that work in the same field as you or who share the same interests, you could also do that.
According to the online relationship counseling site ReGain, if you didn’t find the information you were looking for online, make sure to contact the event organizers for more info. They probably know everything there is to know about the event and you’ll get the answer to your question.
Don’t even think about your “type”
Don’t go on a speed date hoping to find your “type.” It’s better to view it as an experience and embrace it as it is. These events usually end with participants choosing the person they liked the most and the organizers will connect those who chose each other.
What’s very important to mention, is that data from a New York City event showed that those who think outside their “type” are usually those who end up with the most matches.
According to the event organizer, “a couple of participants noted that they met people they liked whom they know they never would have met outside of the ‘controlled’ dating environment.”
I guess now it’s the time to stop liking people just because they’re blonde, tall, fit, lawyer, and so on… Don’t limit yourself to that. The world is full of unexpected moments that are better if not planned ahead.
Prepare your questions
As you probably know, you won’t have enough time to think of what questions to ask while you’re talking to someone, because 5 minutes are not that long. That’s why you should come prepared to ask fun and interesting questions, AskMen.com suggests.
Also, try to stay away from boring questions, like “What do you do for living?” Trust me, no one will remember the person that asks boring questions. Ask them about their favorite vacation they ever had, what they like to do for fun or other questions that could make you understand more the person you’re talking to.
Make sure to dress up with your favorite clothes
“Dressing comfortably isn’t about looking sloppy or not putting any thought into your appearance,” says the dating site eHarmony, “it simply means wearing something that makes you feel good and at ease.”
Speed dating is supposed to be a fun and relaxing experience, where you’ll get to meet a lot of interesting people. Don’t make it more stressful than it needs to be. It’s better to give your partner your full attention, rather than constantly thinking of how uncomfortable your heels are.
While I understand that you’ll want to look beautiful and chic, it’s also important to feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, so probably it wouldn’t be recommended to choose an outfit you’ve never worn before.
Always say good-bye when your time is up
“One of the easiest mistakes to make while speed dating is to rush off as soon as the time ticks down,” suggests the dating advice site WayToo Social.
Therefore, when the time is up, make sure to look your partner in the eye and let them know you enjoyed talking to them. You’ll make the other person feel respected, and the event will feel more personal.
