Speed Dating Tips

First Impressions

Smile! Body language experts agree that smiling is one of the most effective ways to make yourself more attractive and approachable. You don't have to go home with an aching jaw by resembling the Cheshire Cat all night, but a natural smile that says you're comfortable and happy to be there will be enough.

Be punctual! The speed dating event will always start on time. If you arrive late, you will definitely be noticed - but for the wrong reasons. This will cause disruption to the event and could seriously affect your match prospects. Please note that if you do not turn up at all, you will not be entitled to a refund.

Don't turn up drunk! Okay, you may want a bit of Dutch courage, and by all means feel free to turn up early for the event and have a drink at the bar, but don't overdo it. If you're coming straight from work, remember to have something to eat: Some of our events have buffets included, with food available at the half-time break. You really don't want to get confused when you record your matches now do you?

What to Talk about

You have 3 minutes to decide if you want to see this person again. Think about what information is going to help you decide, what is going to tell you the most about your date.

Try to be a bit creative with your questions. By the time you've talked about what you do for a living, or where you live, 18 times, you or your date may be replying with a yawn. Vary your conversation with questions that are fun or unusual, these will not only tell you loads about your date's sense of humour, but will provoke more memorable replies, and get you noticed.

Deal-Breakers. If there's anything you feel really strongly about, or that would genuinely prevent you from dating someone, then you may want to deal with that at this stage, e.g. if you really can't go out with a smoker, or are allergic to animals, then make sure you get that out of the way first, but don't let it spoil the rest of your 3 minutes. 

Keep it Clean. Keep it Respectful. A 3-minute chat isn't long enough, and a speed-dating event not an appropriate place, to bring conversation round to personal or intimate detail. If you really don't hit it off with someone, remember you're only sat with them for 3 minutes, and it's really not worth spoiling the otherwise good atmosphere of the evening. Make the best of it, and when the date ends all you have to do is tick 'NO' on your Match Card. Please note that the management reserve the right to exclude anyone behaving in a disrespectful or abusive manner from future events. 

Safety

Dates Galore stresses the importance of taking the usual precautions you would normally take in dating activities.

Once you’ve made a few matches and you decide to meet for a date, remember to always meet in a public place, or even in a group date setting. Carry your mobile phone, and let someone at home know where you’re going, who you’ll be with and when you’ll be home. Even though you’ve already met in person, it’s always best to be cautious, be smart and be safe.

Copyright © 2003 DatesGalore.co.uk. All rights reserved. 

Revised: October 26, 2003 .