Speed Dating: What Do We Really Know About It?

It is a decision that is made within seconds. First impression and instant attraction are the only prerequisites as you rotate to the next candidate. In less than an hour, you have managed to meet at least ten potential dating partners or more. Now it is time to pick a choice. This is the world of Speed Dating.

Generally known as a service widely used by busy professionals, Speed Dating has become the new way of dating for singles of every socio-economical status. It's quick, fun and convenient. With advance registration and a credit card payment, the possibility of securing a date at the end of the day is almost guaranteed.

According to Wikipedia.com, Speed Dating actually originated in Israel. It was used by Rabbi Yaacov Deyo of Aish HaTorah as a way to help Jewish singles meet and marry.The site also states that the very first Speed Dating event to hit the U.S took place in 1988 at Pete's Café in Beverly Hills. By the turn of the Millennium, it had taken off and began appearing on shows such as Sex and the City. This is also reported on Wikipedia.

Why Speed Date?

For the most part, Speed Dating is time-efficient and structured for interaction with someone at random without the need for introduction. Unlike meeting someone at a bar for instance, it provides a quiet setting for conversation with a person, who would otherwise be ignored or rejected in a typical venue such as a club. It also serves as a great way to take a glimpse at several personalities without distractions such as friends, loud music or competition.

Singles that participate in these events are looking to find a partner quickly based on age, religion and niche; For example- a graduation night, gays and lesbians, older men looking for younger women, older women looking for younger men etc. These are all preferences that are specifically set up in any one single event to accommodate the needs, wants and desires of the participants.

For people who know exactly what they want and what to look for in a partner, Speed dating is the ultimate candy store. Not only do they get to choose from a wide selection right then and there, but romantic compatibility is coated with many different flavors which helps in the decision making process.

Online Speed Dating

This service was launched in 2007 by SpeedDate.com. Users are able to participate in these events from the comfort of their home. The main source of communication is through audio, video and text chats. Although it may not be as productive as the actual "in person" speed date, it still has the same effect. Singles that are looking for a quick match for a possible date can have the same benefits of rapid selection, just without the commute.

The Drawback

You only have minutes to make up your mind whether or not the person in front of you is a match. Immediately following, there are only 2 minutes to make an impression of your own before the bell rings. The pressure is intense. Making a snap decision within seconds to let a stranger into your life can be mentally challenging. This process continues on repetitiously throughout the session sometimes leaving an utter state of confusion at the end. It may narrow down to just a couple of choices but once the pick is made, that's it. You have to deal with it. On occasion, second thoughts may start to set in on whether or not the right choice was made.

The Potential Danger

Taking a test without doing the homework can have serious repercussions, especially when it comes to Speed Dating. Sizing a person up in a matter of seconds before deciding to get involved takes a tremendous amount of smarts and intuition. This may be true for most people, but how does one really know if the person chosen is safe to be around?

Examine for a minute. You have chosen a stranger in 8 seconds because you like the way they look and act. They may even have charmed the pants off you. You make the decision. Yes! That's' the one. Your first few dates go well and you continue. Later on you find out the person you're really into is a felon or someone with a violent past. Depending on how far the relationship has gone; you may even find out this person has a serious disorder. Personality, jealousy, you name it. What do you do then? It is pretty much too late at that point. This person has been allowed into your world and they won't leave without a fight. While that scenario may be a little dramatic, it is certainly a possibility to consider.

On a more positive note, Speed Dating can bring people together in miraculous ways. Even though first impressions play a major role in the selection process, it still behooves you to analyze the person outside of the venue once a commitment has been made. Now no one is suggesting that there is an obligation, but it would be wise to make sure you are getting what you paid for, and that is a potential partner in life. A few simple suggestions will make it easier.

Be sharp and inquisitive before going on the date

Do your homework and get background information

Don't be too quick to invite the person into your home.

Take it slow

Learn about the person

These tips are not afforded you during the session but once you have made a decision, it becomes your right.