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Speed Dating Advice
Spacelocker
Have you ever tried speed dating? It's getting to be quite a phenomenon. Basically it's all about meeting a number of people in a short period of time. Usually someone will organize a get together event of a group of people. Depending on the organizer these groups can be small or large; usually from 20 to 100 people.
When people arrive they are given a first name tag and a number. Then once everyone is settled, the organizer gives the participants a list of people by first name and number who they will meet at this session. The number usually corresponds with a table the participant is sitting at. Participants then move from table to table, depending on whether you are selected to move or sit.
These meetings are called "speed dates". Thes dates usually last 4 to 7 minutes. And there are usually 10 to 15 dates in one session, or sometimes more.
People keep track of their interactions on notepads or "score cards" provided by the organizer. And if the speed date goes well, there can be a follow up at the option of the couples.
There are certain dos and don'ts to speed dating.
The Dos are:
1. Be yourself. Don't make up some fancy job or profession or tell things that are not real about you. After all you are trying to meet someone not impress them.
2. If you like someone let them know. Things go quickly so be sure they are not left guessing of your interest.
3. Be relaxed. Speed dating is supposed to be fun, not like a job interview process. At the very least you will meet some new friends.
4. Show you are making an effort. Dress and groom yourself before the speed dating event. The people you meet will notice and first impressions are everything in speed dating.
The Don'ts:
1. Don't get drunk. Nobody like a slobbering drunk telling everyone how much they love their new friend.
2. Don't talk about yourself too much. People don't like braggarts. And they also like if someone is a good listener as well. You only have a few minutes. Tell your story quickly and then give your new friend enough time to tell you about themselves.
3. Don't forget to keep track of your dates on your speed dating score card. Otherwise you might come to the end of the night and not remember the qualities you liked about certain people.
4. Don't be late. The whole event is about timing. If you start by being late you have defeated the purpose; and others at the event will notice.
5. Don't give out your personal details too quickly. Maybe just a contact email. Don't jump the gun. You can set up another, longer meeting to see whether it is worth revealing more.
At Spacelocker we make it easy for you to have speedy friendships. See someone you may like. Send them an invite. And before you know it you may have a new friend.
Article submitted Saturday, April 10, 2010 & read 48 times.
Gabriela is one of the publisher of Spacelocker.com the First Online School Locker
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