Speed dating is a great way to meet a lot of women in a short space of time. But you have a brief timeframe in which to impress. So we’ve compiled our speed dating tips for men, to help you make the most of the night and succeed in finding the girl for you.Find out how it works, and get the inside track on having the very best experience in this article.
Speed dating tips for men
Speed dating has become increasingly popular and even with the rise of online dating, it remains a firm favourite for singles all over the world. Find out more about what speed dating is, here.
A major benefit is that you won’t be outnumbered. There’ll be as many women there as men, and you each get equal time, so it doesn’t feel competitive or intimidating.
So, let’s delve into our top tips to win on the night. And they begin before you arrive, with some pre-event prep.
Speed dating do's and don'ts
#1 Think about what questions you’ll ask at speed dating.
Your speed dating questions are your calling card, so make them good. Not only are they the key to finding out about the women you meet, but what questions you ask, and how you ask them, will reveal much about you too.
Above all, listen when she answers. This is vital. So many men concentrate on what they’re saying at an event, that they don’t pay attention to her. We naturally are drawn to people who listen to us more than they speak. That doesn’t mean stay silent, just stay interested and involved.
Speed dating tips: questions for guys
Here are some good ones you can use on the night. They also give you a guide as to the kind of thing that goes down well.
#2 Work out what to wear at speed dating
Before you even utter a word, your date will have developed an impression of you and your clothes speak volumes. A splash of colour can be a good way to stand out and be memorable.
What should a man wear to a speed dating event?
Smart casual is a good rule of thumb unless it’s a formal venue at the weekend. Your apparel should be clean and crease-free. Shoes must be scuff-free - brogues or fashionable boots are ideal. Choose something that reflects your personality too. A few good outfit options include:
A stylish t-shirt with a sharp-looking jacket and jeans.
Chinos and a polo shirt.
Trousers and a shirt, with a lightweight trendy jumper.
#3 Ditch naff speed dating lines
If you’re a natural at delivering comedy, with charisma and charm, you may get away with a killer line. But at a speed dating event, it’s going to seem contrived and the woman will wonder if you’re rolling out a pre-rehearsed one to every girl in the room. Not good.
Instead, be genuine, and treat each woman as an individual, making bespoke compliments rather than generic ones.
#4 Take speed dating notes after each date
All your efforts will be futile if you forget to take notes after each date. Don’t assume you’ll remember each woman. The chances are by the end you’ll need your notes to remember who was who. So include key unique details about them that’ll allow you to recall each girl after the event. And most importantly, make a note of who you’d like to match with.
#5 Stand out from the crowd
Equal numbers of men and women make it all very equitable. However, you still need to impress in the crowd and there are ways to do this from the off.
How do you stand out in speed dating?
We generally make a judgment of others in the first few seconds of meeting. Make a great impression with positive, open body language. Smile, sit and stand up straight. Maintain good posture. Eye contact is important, but shouldn't be too intense. Confidence is attractive and even if you don’t feel it, you can still fake it till you feel it.
#6 Read others’ speed dating tips: Reddit advice
For more hints and tips, check out the guys’ advice about speed dating on the Reddit forums.
And remember, it’s not only about meeting someone. It’s also about having a fun night, broadening your horizons and getting to know some more people. It might take several events before getting a match, but if you enjoy the process, you’ll always be a winner.
Related Questions
How does speed dating work?
You’ll get an allocated, equal time slot with each woman. You chat, ask questions, and then, when a bell rings, move on to the next lady. At the end of the night, you let the organisers know (usually online) who you liked - and if it's reciprocated you’ll get an email with the match.
How do you get good at speed dating?
The more events you go to, the more you get in the groove of it. That said, you may find your perfect partner on the first date of your first event. Follow our advice in this article and you’ll get off to a great start.
How long does speed dating take?
It depends on the organisers and number of attendees, but most events span two to three hours, with between 3 and 8 minutes spent with each person.