Like so many things in our wildly changing world, dating isn't what it used to be. Couples still tell tales of meeting at parties, at work, through friends or in bars. With increasing frequency, however, those who are asked "So, how did you meet?" describe chatting into their webcams on a video date or playing something akin to a musical chairs game at an organised speed dating event. Although the goal of each approach is to help people find dates - possibly even mates - there are differences between the two methods.
Speed dating, at first considered an amusing novelty by many, caught on quickly - no doubt because it works so well in a fast-paced world. To participate in a face-to-face event, attendees provide advance information about themselves so they can be placed in groups divided by age range. When given a signal, paired couples begin what is normally only a five-minute chat, looking for a connection until signalled to move on to the next table for another "date." Because participants are paired randomly, they get to meet personality types they would possibly choose to bypass in some other setting. Personal information is not exchanged.
Video dating, an online version of speed dating, is usually conducted through an online dating service. It basically involves a video call during which no personal information is exchanged. The call disconnects at the end of an allotted time, and each participant gives the other people a private thumbs up or thumbs down. If both are interested, the website facilitates further exchanges between the two through instant messaging or even voice calls.
Both methods are time-savers for those whose schedules prevent clubbing or party-going. Video dating works well for anyone who is either uncomfortable meeting others socially or put off by "meat market" leering. It also makes it possible to connect with people from all over the world. In-person dating events allow people to actually meet and normally pair people from the same area. In both, the time limit spares involved parties the misery of sitting with someone undesirable.
Enticing though these dating match methods may be there are important things to know and common-sense guidelines to follow when taking part. Parties should be aware that online personal profiles and statements made face-to-face are sometimes falsified. The other person may not be what, or even who, he says he is, so it's wise not to get too comfortable too fast and share too much. Such openness can also simply create the impression of desperation.
First meetings should be in a well-populated public place - never in someone's home, and addresses should not be exchanged in the beginning. Individuals should arrange their own transportation and a friend or family member should be made aware of the meeting place and the name and phone number of the other person.
Even though it's important to take such measures, it's worth remembering that many happy stories are told about successful pairings and lives made happier through this new age of dating.
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