Pros/cons of Speed Dating

If you’ve been trying to meet someone for what seems like forever, or you haven’t met any new people for a long time, sometimes you want to take action and make something happen fast.  That is one of the big appeals to speed dating. It is an alternative that you may have heard of, but don’t know much about.  We’re going to take a look at speed dating: what it is, pros/cons, and how to decide whether or not it’s for you.   

Let’s begin with a general overview of speed dating, what it is, and how it works. The events are held at public places:  bars, restaurants, conference rooms in hotels, community centers, etc.  The number of people attending depends upon how well the organizers were at marketing the event.  Usually they try to have at least two dozen people, half men, half women.  When you sign in, you are given a number and a card or paper to take notes on the people you meet. 

Everyone is paired up and the first round begins.  Different speed dating organizers will have different time limits on the rounds.  Usually they are three to ten minutes each.  At the end of a round, you move on to the next person.  If you like a person, you put their number on your card.  At the end of the event, you turn in your card to the organizers.  If someone you like also put your number on their card, the organizers will give you each other’s contact info.

Here are some Speed Dating pros and cons you should consider:

Speed Dating Cons

• Initial attraction is usually based solely on looks.  Someone might be very interesting, but you will never find out.
• If you get someone that is socially awkward and has trouble carrying on a conversation (or worse, can’t shut up about themselves), a few minutes can seem like an eternity.
• Many of the people who attend speed dating events choose to do so because they have real trouble meeting people through usual social channels. 
• Many older men lie about their age so they will be put in the pool with younger women.
• Many men and women lie about their professions, financial situations, etc., in an attempt to make themselves seem more attractive. 
• Rejection is a real part of speed dating. Be ready for the chance that none of the people you liked will put your number on their card.

Speed Dating Pros

• You know exactly what someone looks like.  There is no phony profile picture.
• If you don’t like them, you know that they will be gone in a few minutes. 
• You will probably get to meet quite a few people.  Whether you will ever want to see any of them again is a different matter.

If you really want to meet someone quickly, there is another way.  Try Two of Us dating and matchmaking services.  As a Two of Us member, you will know that anyone we suggest you contact is exactly who we tell you they are.  We’ve already checked them out for you.  You can also be assured that you will be compatible.  Since our relationship consultants will know what you are looking for in a relationship, you will have plenty to talk about and you both share common values.  Speed dating might put a lot of people in your face in a short amount of time, but Two of Us will introduce you to compatible, quality individuals, so just one might be enough.