30 Speed Dating Dos And Don'ts

Speed dating is a curious concept—no question there. Meeting strangers for three-minute increments, trying to decipher chemistry and compatibility before the bell rings, and then starting the get-to-know-you conversation all over again... Strange as speed dating may be, it can be a lot of fun and, judging by its staying power, it's a decent way to meet someone. Before you give speed dating a try, check out some dos and don'ts from YourTango's Experts.

DON'T:

1. Ask how much they make or what kind of car they drive.
2. Stare too much or avoid eye contact completely.
3. Reveal too much too soon.
4. Get drunk.
5. Fake it. Come as you are, quirks and all.
6. Do all the talking. No one wants to hear a monologue.
7. Talk about marriage, past relationships, religion or politics.
8. Fish for compliments.
9. Chew gum during or smoke right before the event.
10. Check in on your phone. You are having a conversation with a human. No devices allowed!
11. Check out the bartender. Or the fella at the next table. Stay focused and in the moment with the person across from you.
12. Dismiss the other person on sight. Stay open to the possibility that they have much more to them than meets the eye (and that can be conveyed in five minutes).
13. Wear grays, blacks and beiges.
14. Wear a ton of perfume or jewelry. It's distracting.
15. Overanalyze a first meeting to death. Just enjoy the moment. Who's Choosier: Men Or Women?

Next: Speed Dating Dos...

DO:

1. Breathe and be relaxed.
2. Listen and engage rather than spending the entire time in your head wondering if this is your future husband.
3. Smile with your mouth open to show off your pearly whites. Use humor to keep the mood playful and elicit laughter.
4. Touch him lightly on the arm or leg if appropriate.
5. Play with your hair in a flirtatious way.
6. Dress classy and sassy without showing too much skin. Neck or shoulders is sexy.
7. Keep it upbeat and positive!
8. Play up your best personality asset.
9. Remain open-minded.
10. Be kind to other women, and to the service people. Mind your pleases and thank yous!
11. Pay him compliments! Guys love compliments, too.
12. Mirror his body language. Follow the physical cues of the other person. If he is leaning in, you lean in. Leaning back? You lean back. This creates a comfortable dynamic.
13. Use confident, open body language, ie. sit up straight (no slouching or arm-crossing).
14. Wear RED! Studies show men respond to this color. If red's not your thing, wear another bright and vibrant color. Also, be sure to wear something that flatters your best physical feature. How To Wear The Color Men Love The Most
15. Ask questions. Show genuine curiosity. Be interested. 

And once you've got all this down, DO come out to YourTango's Valentine's Day Eve Speed Flirting Event! There are a limited number of tickets available, so do secure yours now.