How to Survive Speed Dating

Speed dating allows singles to have several "dates" in one evening. The typical "date" is three to ten minutes long. Speed dating works so that all participants will have one-on-one time with each other. Each participant is given a score sheet to mark which daters he or she would like to see again, and the results are typically distributed after the event. Here's how to work it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flattering outfit
• Positive attitude
• Money (entry fees will vary)

1. Wear something that is flattering but not too revealing. You want your date to notice you and not a certain body part or too much exposed skin. You want to attract the right kind of attention.
2. Choose topics that will help you to get to know the other person easily and are appropriate for a first date. For example, ask the person about what kind of work he does, his family and his hobbies.
3. Act like yourself, and act positively. No one is attracted to an overly negative person. Breathe, smile and relax! Remember to make eye contact with your date when he or she is speaking.
4. Create a list of questions to ask your dates before the event, and review it a few hours before the event. (But do not let anyone see this. Keep it in your pocket or purse, and do not bring it out during the event! That would be dorky.) This way, you can have a plethora of fresh topics on your mind to ask the other person.
5. Allow your date to talk, and be a good listener at all times. This is key in any sort of dating situation.
6. Refrain from panicking if things aren't going well. The good news is, the "date" will only last a maximum of ten minutes. This is the great advantage of speed dating.
7. Mark on your score sheet. The rules and procedures of the score tabulation will most likely be explained at the beginning of the event. Now you can take a deep breath and relax, because you have survived your speed-dating experience!

Tips & Warnings

• Having a beer (if you are 21 and older) will help you to loosen up, but having too many beers may make you look like a fool. Limit your alcohol, or else your dates may get the wrong impression of who you really are.
• Never give out any personal information. Typically the event organizers will contact you after the event and give you the list of matches with their contact information.
• Do not talk about ex's or past relationships. That is too personal and too much information for a first date.