Directions to Speed Dating

At a speed dating event, you can meet many potential dates

If meeting someone at a bar or club is no longer your thing, consider speed dating. Speed dating is an event that takes an even set of participants, puts them in a restaurant or ballroom and allows them to meet each other, interview-style, within a certain time limit. It's an effective way to meet and get to know a lot of people and possibly find your next date.

Instructions

1. Search online for a speed dating event near you. Many clubs, restaurants and other venues may host speed dating events on a regular basis. Most speed dating events are very audience specific, too. Choose from a wide variety of options including age, religion, profession, ethnicity or sexual orientation-specific events and sign up.

2. Prepare for the event. Most speed dating events provide a protocol for participants to follow, such as answering a few basic questions about yourself that you submit prior to the event. This will help the event organizers set up the group according to likes and interests. Before attending the event, think of a way to introduce yourself in a minute or less as well as some unique questions to ask instead of the usual "what do you like to do for fun?" types of questions. Examples include your favorite vacation spot or how would you spend a million dollars.

3. Wear an outfit that's flattering. First impressions mean a lot more when you only have a few short minutes to make one. Most speed dating events specify the type of attire that is accepted and not accepted. Be sure to follow the rules.

4. Get ready to meet a lot of singles. Most speed dating events host dozens of local singles and take place in an intimate setting, whether a restaurant, closed-off bar or hotel ballroom. Event organizers provide each participant with paper or note cards to jot down notes. The event host decides which way the event will go, such as who will sit and who will rotate around the room. A time limit per each participant is set, typically between 4 and 8 minutes. If you feel a possible connection with that person, jot down his name or other information provided on his name card. At the end of the event, hand your possible connections to the event organizer and she will do all the matchmaking work for you, providing your email address, phone number and any other information you provided prior to the event.

Tips & Warnings

• Be open to everyone. Try not to make snap judgments based on attire or shyness. Step out of your comfort zone and learn about someone who may not be your typical choice. For example, if you're into brainy types, learn more about someone who is passionate about sports.

• Try not to slip your number or any other personal information on the sly. Allow the event organizers to do all the communication work for you. That way, if the feelings weren't mutual, you won't provide your information to someone who's not interested.

References

• 8MinuteDating.com: 8 Great Dates -- 1 Fun Night!
• Nerve.com; The Storytelling Problem; Malcolm Gladwell; 2005
• ProsInTheCity.com