Introduced in the 1990s, speed dating has become increasingly popular both through the United States and in other countries. Although it was first invented to help young Jewish singles meet other singles, this ritual still serves that purpose today. Clubs in major cities regularly host speed dating nights. An equal number of men and women are invited to a given location, and while women stay at their two person tables, the men have five to ten minutes to speak to each woman.

When time is up, the man moves on to the next table until he has talked with every woman. At the conclusion of the evening, each person checks off if they are interested in meeting with anyone else further. If a man and woman each check off the other person, then the host will provide contact information for the matches. While fun, speed dating moves quickly, so a novice must come into the speed dating arena prepared.

Speed daters have limited time, so make a good first impression. Take time that day to physically prepare yourself. Look your best, because the date is based on your first impression. Don't set yourself up for mental rejection before you even open your mouth..

Go into the arena prepared. Take time to ask both engaging and open ended questions. Ask questions that would eliminate a potential match. For example, if you do not want to date a smoker, ask if your date smokes. Knowing what to ask ahead of time will ensure you are asking relevant questions.

Arrive at your date on time. Not only will arriving late leave a bad impression, but you might lose your spot in the event.

Have a good time at your event, and yet focus on finding a potential match. Remember your final objective when going into the speed dating arena, and you can accomplish this objective by answering questions honestly. Do not attempt to impress your date, but just be yourself. The more honest you are, the more likely you'll be to find a good match. Giving answers your date just wants to hear will result in a match that won't work out long term.

After the event ends and you receive your match up, avoid waiting for contact. Because you and your date could have made several matches, the details of your date might be hazy. The sooner you contact your date, the more likely you'll be able to remember the details.

Even though you have met, remember that you only visited with the match for a few minutes. Exercise caution for your first post speed dating meeting. Meet in a well populated, public place, and consider who you contact carefully.

While speed dating can lead to a potential long term match, it can also result fun and meeting many people. Remember these tips the next time you have the urge to get to know lots of people in one evening's time, and you will have an excellent speed dating adventure.