We want you to make the best first impression on your speed dating events to help you get the best from the evening. You have a limited time when meeting someone new - just 4 minutes to impress your potential next date. We have devised some pointers to help you get off to a flying start.
1. Time Keeping
Arrive in plenty of time. You will need to register with the host for the speed dating and get yourself a drink from the bar before the initial brief begins. We would recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early.
2. First Impressions Count
Your physical presence matters so present yourself in the best possible light. Your date will want to see you in clean, ironed clothes, freshly showered, maybe a new fresh haircut and looking gorgeous. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and so the "picture" you first present needs to demonstrate who you are to the person you are meeting.
Present the best possible version of who you are, so dress to impress and smell amazing - how will your date be able to resist?
3. Be Yourself
Yes, making a good first impression does mean you need to "fit in" to some degree. But it doesn't mean losing yourself or pretending to be someone you're not.
The best way to create a good impression is by being your authentic self. Doing this will make you feel more confident, help you to build trust, and earn the respect and integrity of the people you meet.
4. Remember to Smile
As the saying goes, "Smile and the world smiles too." A warm and confident smile will put both you and the other person at ease. Smiling is infectious - try smiling at someone and they will smile back. So smiling is a winner when it comes to great first impressions. But don't go overboard with this – people who take this too far can come across as insincere.
5. Be Confident
Body language can often speak louder than words.
You can use your body language to ooze confidence and self-assurance. Stand tall, smile (of course), make eye contact, greet with a handshake. All of this will help you to project confidence and encourage both you and the other person to feel more at ease.
We all get nervous sometimes when meeting someone new for the first time. But this can lead to unwanted side effects, such as biting your nails, the "jitters" or sweaty palms. By being aware of your nervous habits, you can try to keep them in check.
6. What to talk about when speed dating - and what not to talk about!
We would recommend steering away from politics and Brexit! These are always contentious topics of conversation. Try to avoid negative topics - you only have 4 minutes to chat!
Try and steer the conversation to things you like to do to see if you are compatible. If you like going to festivals, ask them what favorite music they like. If you like golf ask them if they have ever played a few rounds. Try and find some common ground which the other person will be interested in. This makes the conversation flow and you have a better chance of your date wanting to talk to you again to find out more.
7. Politeness costs nothing when speed dating
Remember to be polite and courteous to the other person. You can achieve this by turning off your mobile phone prior to the dating commencing, saying please and thank you, using eye contact, being interested in what the other person is saying. If you don't give someone 100% of your attention they will feel unimportant. Stay focused and enjoy the chat.
8. Staying Positive
Having a sunny disposition and a positive outlook can work wonders. Your date wants to know you are a pleasure to be around and you want them to meet you again in the future. Smile, relax and show them that you are approachable and great company.
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