Speed dating has come a long way from its early conception and like other ‘standard’ forms of dating, similar rules of success apply. Read on and learn how to maximize your time-at-the-table and get a date that’s worth the rate!
Speed dating organizers
Before you join up to a speed dating event, consider the company that is hosting it – a little time spent researching the organization will ensure that you are attending a well publicized event with the right type of people you want to meet. Check if the company is a member of any trade associations or indeed, part of a bigger company. Ask yourself how well (and where) the event was advertised – do they advertise on sex websites in order to bring in the punters or do they advertise on dating sites that you might have already tried? Is it a purely local event and do you run the risk of running into your uncle Fred or worse still, your Gynecologist. Don’t be afraid to ask how participants are found and where they come from as it can make all the difference in improving your chances in getting some good contacts at the event itself.
Dress to impress
Choose your event outfit carefully as first impressions make a big impact in the Speed dating environment. Remember you are not in nightclub and on the pull so dress for the person you want to attract. There’s no point in complaining that your speed daters only wanted to get into your pants if you were dressed like a poll dancer or are sporting a John Holmes thong. Keeping the goodies under wraps displaying just a hint of what might be available ensures you give suitors the incentive to find out what more lies underneath!
Conversation is crucial
You are going to a Speed dating event with the intention of meeting some nice daters and you should be prepared to talk with (emphasis on ‘with’) people. Do a little bit of preparation and create some questions before you attend the event. Better still, impress your would-be-suitors by memorizing the questions instead of reading them off a list. You might want to think of some slightly flirty questions for the people you really like and some long answer type questions for the people you’re not that keen on. You should also ask open questions that begin ‘ Describe for me what.., what do think of…,When did you last..’ and so on. Questions that have only a yes or no answer will cut the conversation short and you’ll have to do more work!
Remain independent
Try to keep to the subject (you) and avoid talking about your job, kids or your ex (no no!) instead, think of some of your strengths and practice how you are going to present these to anyone who asks – you’ll appear more confident and a lot more interesting if you can give your suitor a better insight into the type of person you are rather than the job you do.
Sobriety. Be careful how much alcohol you consumer before and during the event as there is no greater turn off (and big warning sign) than someone who is already drunk BEFORE they have even gone on a date! The same applies to taking drugs – if you hit the Columbian marching powder you’ll come across as a manic banshee and people WILL notice. Obviously, avoid getting stoned or you’ll forget why you’re there in the first place and in the worst case scenario, fall asleep at your table.
Laughter lubricates. Everyone likes a smile, everyone likes to laugh – simple things but the stress of an interview environment can cause people to freeze up, instantly sending the wrong message. Keep you smile real as your eyes will give you away if you plaster a manic grin on your face. If you don’t find something funny, a quick smirk and change of conversation will steer you onto a funnier subject that can be promptly introduced by you.
Personal space. We all have our personal space and when someone charges in, it can throw us off balance and you might want to consider this during the event. You are already sat very close to a stranger and even though there is a table between you, personal space still matters. Keep your legs under your chair and avoid playing footsie until your next date. Do not touch the hands of your suitor unless invited (watch their body language!) a firm handshake (not a vice-like grip) at the end of your meeting will help show you appreciation of your meeting.
Body works. Ladies – keep your make-up natural and light as too much will hide any natural blushing in your face. Think also about the venue you are going to be in and add/remove before the event starts (Venue lighting can make you appear like a Vegas showgirl if you’ve plastered it on and the lights are bright)
Men – shave or at the very least, trim as there are very few women who want to kiss Grizzly Adams. Keeping your face clear of unsightly facial hair will help the person focus on one of the most visual of sexual organs – your lips. Use them wisely and not as clear warning that you’ll sand any potential dates’ face off.
Body language
As it’s highly likely you are going to be sat behind a table during the main event , concentrate on getting your body language right and start thinking from the waist up as only the upper part of your body is going to be visible and for a limited timeframe. Lean in towards your date to indicate you are interested in what is being said and maintain good eye contact while listening. Never cross your arms unless you really want to put off your suitor. Sit upright - as well helping you concentrate on what is being said and projecting a clearer voice, you’ll appear more attractive and your cleavage/chest will be lifted substantially! Women -If you want to flirt, play with your hair a little. Chances are you’ll be doing this already if someone is attractive to you but don’t go overboard as you’re suitor will think you have a nervous tick. Men – cock your head to one side to show you are listening – women like a man who pays attention.
Keep notes &Follow up!
In the midst of all the action, remember to keep notes about the person who you have just met. When the event is in full swing, it’s easy to forget the write a number and comment down. Keep it simple by using smiley’s as your key or better still, define some simple, coded drawings (in advance) to record how you felt about a certain person. If you receive any requests for further contact after the event, you’ll have a much easier time if you know how/why you graded the person you are meeting. If you forget to write enough detail down and you’re not sure, go along to the date anyway – what have you got to lose? The other person thought you were great and that’s already 50% of the battle won – so just do it 
There you go, a few chosen pointers to ‘keep you on your toes’ during your Speed dating experience! Remember to relax by taking slow deep breaths and you’ll come across as cool as a cucumber with a fleet of admirers in no time.
very good article indeed.
Enjoyed this article, it was a really good read. I’m off now to look at the other posts
Great article!
Dont agree I’m afraid