What is Speed Dating?

You have heard of it, and maybe some of your friends have even tried it, but what exactly is speed dating?

In short, speed dating is just what it sounds like. It is a series of "mini dates" aimed at introducing you to multiple potential dating partners in a matter of minutes. The concept was born in the Jewish culture to maximize dating success, but it caught fire in 1998 at Pete's Café in Beverly Hills.

Almost every major city hosts this type of event, which usually takes place at a bar, club, or some other low-key environment. Tables-for-two are set up, and participants spend an average of three minutes in conversation before switching to a different partner. Anywhere from 60 to 100 singles participate per event, making it very easy to meet potential dating partners.

The Pros of Speed Dating

For starters, speed dating takes the edge off of the typical mating ritual. Approaching women at a bar can be nothing short of nerve wracking, but in a speed dating situation, you are certain that everyone present has the same goal…to hook up. From there, it is just a matter of deciding who fits your bill.

Speed dating is also beneficial, because it requires very effective communication. If you have only got three minutes to determine if you are compatible with someone, you cannot waste time on meaningless conversation. While certain subjects (such as a person's address) tend to be off limits, topics such as hobbies, career, and lifestyle surface in order to reveal a good (or bad) match.

Finally, with so many options at your disposal, your odds of clicking with someone are much greater than with traditional dating methods. A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania in 2005 discovered that a majority of speed daters selected a mate within the first three seconds. And in 2006, a study conducted in Scotland revealed that 45 percent of women and 22 percent of men found a match in the first 30 seconds.

Even if you are not successful, you are almost guaranteed to have a great time! With so many characters and personalities, speed dating is known for generating laughs and fun conversation. Why not give it a try?

Disadvantages of Speed Dating

The obvious downfall of speed dating is cost, but it certainly will not break your wallet. One session can run you anywhere from $20 to $40. That may seem steep to you, but if you consider all the money you have spent at bars only to be unsuccessful in getting phone numbers, it may be worth it.

Another problem with speed dating is the possibility of not meshing with anyone. Everything from looks to conversation is a toss up. You could run in to the partner of your dreams, but on the other hand, you could end up face-to-face with nothing but oddballs. That does not mean you should not give it a try, though.

Finally, the rules of speed dating indicate that you have to talk to everyone participating. With that said, you may not be physically attracted to the next person in line, but you still have to converse with them for the allotted time. Depending on your perspective, this can be good or bad, but you never know…you may end up really enjoying the conversation!

Final Thoughts on Speed Dating

So does speed dating really work? If your goal is to meet multiple people seeking romance and companionship, then yes. Speed dating can accommodate anyone with an open mind and adventurous nature. The intent is clear; the cost is reasonable; and the success rates have been proven across the board.

On the other hand, if your expectations are unreasonably high, speed dating may not be for you. Overall, the people who have had the most success with this dating trend have approached it as a fun and interesting way to mingle with others, and nothing more. They consider it a twist on the average night out, and if they are lucky, they come out with a phone number or two.

If they are unlucky, they at least had a good time.