A Woman’s Guide to Speed Dating

Speed dating is one of the best ways to meet new men in a short amount of time. It widens your network for potential mates, enhances your social skills, and best of all, it’s loads of fun! You get to see a wide range of characters and possibly even Mr. Right if you’re lucky.

If you’re new to speed dating, don’t worry. There isn’t much to learn as the mechanics are very simple. A man sits across your table and you spend 10 minutes getting to know each other. Once the buzzer rings, he moves on to another table and another man takes his place. This happens for a few hours depending on how many participants there are.

It can be overwhelming to meet different men in one day which is why we have created this quick guide to help you succeed and find that potential Mr. Right.

Know your deal breakers

Have a short list of your deal breakers before attending the speed dating event. It could be something as serious as smoking, heavy drinking, or having three kids. It can even be as petty as bad breath or an unkempt dress shirt. Some of these deal breakers you can find out directly from the guy or observe them yourself.

Dress to impress

You are more likely to be remembered by your prospects if you are dressed nicely. You are still on a date after all and first impressions are everything. Wear something evocative without showing too much skin.

A nice feminine dress paired with heels is a good start. You can go further by wearing something red.

Studies have shown that women who wear read are likely to pique a man’s interest.

Stay interesting and interested

Don’t limit yourself to a standard set of questions. You won’t be as memorable if you ask the same questions to every man who sits at your table. Ask different questions to every guy to keep things interesting. If he doesn’t meet your qualifications from the onset, it doesn’t mean you need to stop conversing. Don’t just talk about yourself either. Be as equally interesting as you expect the guy across the table to be.

Use body language to express deep interest

If you like him enough, show your interest through body language. Something as simple as lightly leaning forward or twirling a strand of your hair should give him a clue.

Ask open-ended questions

Because speed dating requires the man to sit at your table and switch every 10 minutes, you get the advantage of being able to ask the questions first. Avoid yes or no questions and go for open-ended ones like “What do you like doing when you’re not working?” or “What was the last place you travelled to?”

Don’t reveal too much

We’re talking about personal information like your address, phone number, and email. At the end of the event, take the time to continue chatting with those you feel particularly interested in. Only swap contact information with men whom you would consider going out on a date with.

Keep an open mind and have fun!

Just because the previous date was bad, it doesn’t mean you have to completely ruin it for the rest of the guys. Reset yourself and focus on your current date. Take this opportunity to engage and get to know them. This experience will only be as good as you make it so might as well enjoy it.

Maintain communication with your matches after the speed dating event and who knows, one of those connections might just blossom into something more beautiful than just a 10-minute conversation at the table. If you haven’t found your match, don’t be discouraged. It takes a few events before getting the hang of things.