Ever wanted to get to know someone, but you didn't know how to start the conversation? Yep, we’ve all been there but don’t fret! Here at Dateinadash, London’s #1 speed dating company, we think that a good conversation starter is like starting a car engine. If you don’t know how to start the engine, you won’t go anywhere!

As promised, here are some conversation starters for you to try out this summer at one of our upcoming speed dating events! Have a go and see how you get on.

Observational topics

This is a great topic because talking about the situation you are both in is usually the safest and easiest options to start a conversation. It is less likely to provoke anxiety and is also more likely to encourage involvement of the other person than talking about yourself.

We suggest starting a conversation about the situation you are in, taking in your surroundings and looking around to find things that interest or puzzle you. If possible, look for things that the other person is also likely to want to talk about and remember that saying something is often better than remaining speechless.

While making facts about the bar or setting is fine, it doesn’t involve the person you are sitting with so the next best thing is to ask a relevant question, such as, ’Have you tried the cocktails here? They’re so delicious’, or ‘What do you think of the venue tonight? I really like the decor, it’s very chic and there’s room to dance too! What do you think?’. By asking these sorts of question you are not only engaging them in the conversation but also encouraging them to give you feedback.

Talking about the other person is normally a winner, too. This is because most people are glad to talk about themselves and will be pleased to respond to any questions or comments about themselves.

Before you do though, it is a good idea to observe what the other person is doing, saying, looking at or wearing and think of something you would be interested to know more about. If you tell a sexy female single that you liked her dress, top or hairstyle for example, you could mention that it really suits her, is really flattering and even enquire if fashion and the latest trends are important to her or something similar.

Interests or Hobbies

This topic follows on from the above as it focuses on the other person but remember- be ready to answer questions about yourself too or it will become a one way conversation! By asking your date about any hobbies or interests they have will give you a better insight into the kinds of things they enjoy doing in their spare time.

Of course, everyone needs a change from their daily routine of work and so asking them what they enjoy doing with their leisure time is definitely going to reveal if they enjoy cooking, sports, socialising, art, politics....anything really!

Plus, you may just find out you have a shared common interest or even that they have a weird or wonderful hobby; just remember though, you don’t want to freak anyone out on the first meet but hey, life is for living and if you like hurling yourself out of aeroplanes at the weekend, just because, then good for you!

Travel Experiences

Whether you are a keen traveller or more of a homebird, why not find out what your speed dater prefers? Maybe they enjoy jetting off around the world, sunning themselves in luxury destinations, skiing in the Alps or maybe just staying at home snuggled up in front of the fire. Everyone has their preferences and why not find out for yourself whether the person sat in front of you has the same approach to travelling as you.

Maybe ask them the most interesting places they have visited, what they think are the best holiday destinations, the best attractions they have visited, what they miss the most when they are on their travels and if they are planning to travel any time in the near future.

Naturally, this topic offers endless chances to discuss lots of topics such as any unusual food and drinks, different cultures, landscapes and people. Maybe they have met interesting characters while they have been away and who knows maybe you will be jetting off into the sunshine sometime soon!? One thing is for sure- you will never know until you start chatting and getting to know them better!

So, with all this in mind, if you ever catch yourself getting nervous or self conscious at a speed dating event, worrying about what you’re going to say or how you’ll keep some of the conversations going then we really hope that our Conversation Starters have helped!

When those four minutes feel like four hours just remember, you are not alone and while it can be really challenging, particularly if you fancy the person you’re talking to, don’t give up! And the most important point- that’s it; keep smiling as happy people spread happiness!

If you are single and ready to mingle, why not book a ticket to one of our upcoming London Speed Dating events? From Drunk Jenga, Naked Speed Dating to Singles Parties in the heart of the capital (and so much more!) our 2018 events are set to be as popular and successful as ever! Why not join in the fun and see what Cupid has in store for you this year? It really could be the best decision you make all year!