Know just what to say to make an impression but more importantly, get to know your fellow singles on the level YOU want to make your dating worthwhile.
It seems easy to spark a basic “getting to know you” conversation on a date with all night to ask anything on your mind with your new date. But what about when the ring of a bell and a quick table change can halt your conversation? This, my pro Minglers, is the pressure that arises in speed dating. Don’t let that scare you off from this super fun and easy way to meet other Chicago singles though. Mingle Around organizes tons of different and exciting events for singles, but speed dating is one of our specialties, and we want to see you get the most out of these mini-dates. Make every minute of conversation count, but no matter what, have fun with it! Here’s some basic yet original tips to keep in mind when meeting date prospects during speed dating.
before you go:
While prepping for the night, take some time to plan out questions you want to to ask. The basics of where he/she is form, what they do for a living, favorite movies, books, and overall interests, are a quick gateway into flowing conversation, but don’t waste time thinking of these questions at the event. You’ll want to know as much as possible within your time limit, so decide what you really want to know from your date. Rapid-fire questions, though intimidating, can definitely be expected!
know your answers
Not only will you want to get to know as much as you can about the date sitting across from you, but he/she will want to find out about you too! To avoid any awkward pauses, give some thought to how you would answer the questions you intend to ask; it’ll be easy for him/her to ask right back, “What about you?” You may not often think much about what you do for fun, or some of your most basic thoughts or beliefs. Where’s your favorite place to vacation? What’s your favorite book? Some quirks about yourself? Go ahead and be selfish, think only about yourself for a bit too; you may be surprised by your own answers!
touchy subjects:
If it’s one of your first speed dating events, surely you’ll be a bundle of nerves “What kind of people will be there? What do I ask? What will they think of me?” will probably be buzzing through your head, and most of all, you’ll probably be jittery about pushing someone’s buttons or saying the wrong thing. No pressure, right? Since you never know what someone may take the wrong way, keep the conversation at surface level. Sure, you’ll want to stand out, but your personality will shine through plenty with the simplest of questions. The tougher topics of politics or religion can wait until a few more (longer) dates in.
yes, no, end of conversation.
Any moment of silence is time lost getting to know someone in this fast-paced event. Keep the conversation flowing with confidence by asking open-ended questions. Anything you ask with a “yes” or “no” answer starts you back at square 1, and the conversation will be static, especially if your date is shy or doesn’t seem to have much to say. Telling stories or explaining answers can lead to something else you may be familiar with. Ask follow up questions to what the other may start talking about; he/she will notice that you’re interested.
when all else fails, laugh
Everyone seems to say they’re looking for someone with a sense of humor; so if you’re really looking to switch it up from surface-level conversation, ask some silly yet thoughtful questions. You’ll certainly be remembered, but you’ll still get to know your dates pretty well. Here are some of my favorites:
- 1. What was the first person you ever had a crush on like? Everyone has a funny first love
- 2. Which television program would you refuse to give up for a night out with me?
- 3. If you were thrown in jail for a bad habit, what would be your bad habit crime?
- 4. What would your superpower be? Would it be for good or evil use?
Remember that speed dating is not the place you’ll meet your soul mate (at least you won’t know that night!) and to relax. If you go into the event lightheartedly and confidently, you’re sure to have a fun time and meet some interesting people..
Think you’re ready? Mingle Around has an upcoming Speed Dating event almost every week!
