About Speed Dating: Pros and Cons

By Hilary Rowland

      Here's how it works: When you enter the venue you are given a paper that has 25 blank lines and one 'Yes' and one 'No' box next to each. You are also given a name tag with your name and your assigned number. When the dating begins you sit down and either stay sitting or move from table to table (follow the numbers on the tables). After each 'date' you record the person's assigned number on one of the blank lines and tick either 'Yes' or 'No' (to signify whether you'd like to exchange emails). There is one break (like an intermission) half way through for drinks or the washroom.

Pretty much all of the services gave the same stats as far as average success rates go: About 80% of people have at least one match. The average person checks six YES boxes (for people they would like to see again.) Of that six, about three match up, with the other person also checking YES.

Here's a quick summary of the pros and cons of speed dating:

Pros

• If you don't have a way to meet potential dates, this is a great way to get a very quick overview of 20 or so people who are also looking for a relationship.
• You can ask pretty much whatever you want right away. If you don't like the answers, you don't have to waste any more time talking to the person.
• In comparison, with Internet dating a person's whole identity (not to mention their sex!) could be completely false or fabricated. With speed dating at least you pretty much know that their motives are sincere (not to mention that yes, they are in fact male or female.)

Cons

• It can be superficial, as the way someone looks and dresses is a big part of what you'll have to go on since you're not going to get an idea of the person's morals or character in a few minutes of small talk.
• You (or they) may check 'No' to the nicest person there, as a good talker and dresser would have more success at these events than someone who may be a bit shy but has integrity.

Speed Dating Event #1 - British Airways Stewardess

Speed Dating Event #2 - Professional Chef

Speed Dating Event #3 - International Fashion Model

The Verdict & Tips

Speed Dating in London - A Guy's Perspective