At speed dating events, an equal number of men and women gather at a particular place that has been rented out for the evening. The place is filled with tables for two, and every table is numbered. Participants have a set amount of time, normally, 3 to 10 minutes. At the end of the set time, the host either rings a bell or plays music between rounds to let individuals know that they have to move on to the next date. Individuals are asked to write on a form if they would be interested in seeing this person again. These forms contain boxes with options of yes and no. If both parties have ticked the ‘yes’ box, planners let participants know within 48 hours about the matches that have been made, and provide each of them the other’s email address, or email address as well as phone number.

Most free speed dating services do not provide individuals with any contact information about the singles listed with them. This includes their telephone number, last name, e-mail address, business card, or their address.

With the intention of creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable evening for everyone, there are few subjects that individuals are not allowed to discuss at any time during a speed-dating event. They are not allowed to ask for contact information, ask anyone for another date, ask sexually explicit questions, use vulgar words, or say anything that may be understood as hostile or as sexual harassment.

Though speed dating makes some wonder the utility of this kind of dating, for 10 minutes is not enough to know someone to make you decide on a second meeting with that person. However for some people this method has proved convenient and beneficial. Here are some tips on how to become successful in speed dating.

Be punctual- These speed dating sessions are entirely time based. As you know each candidate is allowed only a specific time after which they have to move on. If you arrive late at the venue you may miss your opportunity of getting to know some good prospective dates as your time is allotted to someone else due to your late arrival.

Have your questions ready – Since there is a shortage of time and you might not be able to think of immediate questions at the venue, try and prepare yourself with some good questions like their hobbies, their interests, their goals, the type of relationship they are interested in, their religious beliefs etc.

It would not be a bad idea to memorize these questions so that you do not waste any time. Also keep in mind the other person may also be having similar questions. Thus be ready and prompt with your answers. Give truthful answers to your partners questions.

Appearance is important- Though these speed dating sessions are meant for you to judge the other persons overall personality other than their physical appearance, looks do matter. People do not like to interact with those who have a shabby look or a dirty appearance. Thus make sure that you too pay attention to your physical appearance to create a good impression.

Work fast on the second meeting – Once you are done with the speed dating session and your organizer gives you details of your prospective dates after matching your notes do not toy with the idea of calling your date. It is possible that you will forget some details about your partners at some moment. Maybe this is for you have many others to date with. Hence to avoid confusion, you had better dial the number.