I have been a Speed Dating Coordinator since 2002 and have learned how this process can help singles expand their dating portfolio while having fun at the same time. I want to share this knowledge and provide a clear understanding of what to expect when attending a speed dating event, and how it will benefit you when re-entering the dating scene or simply looking for your perfect partner.

Speed Dating is a non-threatening way to meet great people, learn how to talk about yourself and crystallize your listening skills. Speed dating allows you to move further faster and creates greater comfort ability when speaking to singles in other social situations. Think of it like preparing for an exam or job interview - the more you prepare the greater likelihood of getting what you want. Isn't it about time?

Pre-Dates provide the opportunity to meet someone and speak with other singles for 6 minutes to determine if you would like to go on an actual date with them. Speed Dating allows you to sit across from the person and see if there's immediate chemistry - you are able to see if they're being truthful and physically view how they respond to what you have to say. Instead of hiding behind a computer and communicating via email, you'll know how they operate and respond in the everyday world. This is imperative to efficient and effective dating.

Over the years, the following speech has become my mantra when introducing new people to Speed Dating. "You will be nervous from the time you walk into the event up until the start of the event. Everything will be clearly described to you before we start and the materials are provided. Once we start, any nervousness goes away and you begin having fun immediately. You have a great time throughout the event and leave happy you came and participated. I guarantee it." Honestly, I can say that statement with the utmost sincerity and every word is true - it applies to the most comfortable participants to the most terrified. Speed dating truly is a relaxing, uplifting, confidence building experience for everyone who attends. By trying something uncomfortable and stepping outside your comfort zone, you come out feeling reenergized because you tried something new - and enjoyed yourself.

I recommend using Pre-Dating's Speed Dating service, which is nationwide, because the Coordinators are compassionate, responsible, knowledgeable and contribute their time because they truly care. I recommend their process over other speed dating events because Cupid controls the participant numbers so everyone meets each other and the process is organized and maintained effectively by the Coordinators. You never feel that you don't know what to do or where to go. Coordinators are available for any questions or concerns - before, during and after the event. They are approachable and reachable so you get the feeling you're not going through this alone.

The Speed Dating process:

Speed Dating parties are held at a local upscale restaurant or bar. Guests register online and then check in the night of the party and receive numbered nametags, special scorecards and seat assignments at one of many tables for two.

After some refreshments and mingling, party hosts get the dating started by ringing a bell. After each six-minute date, couples mark their scorecards with a "YES" or "NO", noting whom they would like to hear from again. Each bell ringing signals a move to the next date, men move up the row of tables until the final date is complete. Pre-dating eliminates those long first dates allowing you to meet lots of people in one evening!

Each guest then receives an email with a list of participants who would like to hear from them again! Your initial party results are received within 24 hours! Odds are you'll have one or more matches (more than two-thirds of PreDaters match at least one person). If you don't receive a Match, you receive a credit toward a future event. This is crucial since the more times you attend, the more people you'll meet.

If you would like more individualized help through your dating process, please contact me for a free consultation. I am a Certified Dating Coach and work with clients nationwide helping them identify a profile of their perfect partner, learn how to have fun dating, and meet great people while placing yourself in the position to meet that perfect partner.

Author's Bio: 

Rebecca Savidge Gray is a Certified Dating Coach and Pre-Dating's National Dating Coach since 2002. She works primarily with single women over 35 who are re-entering the dating scene following divorce, death of a spouse or end of a long term relationship.

Rebecca is a speaker and runs local Dating Workshops in Denver, Colorado

For more information or to create a personalized Dating RoadMap, please contact Rebecca at (720) 364-7588 or email to Rebecca@TheDatingConsultant.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.TheDatingConsultant.com or follow her @datingover34.