Last updated on July 20th, 2025 at 03:53 am
If you’ve ever signed up for a singles event and then spent the next few hours struggling with social anxiety or dating anxiety, you’re not alone. These events can sometimes feel like a strange blend of job interviews and speed networking rather than a dating event.
But when you’re prepared, these events can be super fun, low-pressure, and genuinely engaging.
Whether it’s your first time attending or you just want to avoid another awkward night, here are some tips to help you make the most of your singles event.
Pick the Right Kind
Not all singles events are hosted the same way. Some can be casual mixers at a bar, while others are themed speed dating nights or meetups based on age, interest, or hobbies.
Before you go for one, ask yourself what you want. Is it something:
- Chill or structured?
- With big crowds or a smaller group?
- Involving lots of activities or a casual, slow event?
If you’re in Australia, the growing popularity of singles events Melbourne means a lot of options to choose from. From brunches to cozy nights, you can pick anything that fits your vibe.
Dress for Confidence
Sure, you want to make a good impression, but this isn’t a red carpet. The goal is to look like you, but with a slightly more polished appearance.
Think of the event as if you were going on a first date. Dress clean, comfortable, and in something that makes you feel confident. Bonus points if you wear something that can be a conversation starter.
A cool jacket, unique earrings, or a graphic tee can start conversations. Just give people something to compliment you on.
Show Up a Bit Early
Being fashionably late is overrated. If you show up just a bit before the event starts, you can ease into the environment, grab a drink, and start chatting casually before the main activities begin.
It also shows that you’re actually invested in meeting people, not just there to check a box or spend some idle time outside.
Be Genuinely Curious
Nobody likes the rapid-fire style of questions or when the conversation starts feeling like an interview.
Stop asking things like, “What do you do?” or “Where are you from?”
Instead, ask open-ended questions like:
- What brought you here tonight?
- What’s your favourite part about this event?
- If you could live anywhere, where would you go?
These questions spark real conversations and give people room to show personality instead of just giving answers.
Read the Room
Some people are there to flirt, while others are just getting back into the dating scene. Don’t just go up to anyone and say cheesy pick-up lines unless you’re 100% sure they’d be okay with it.
Observe people’s body language. If they’re leaning in, laughing, and asking questions back, that’s a green light. If they seem to be scanning the room or replying with one or two words every time you speak, move on and find someone else.
You won’t click with everyone, and that’s okay. Just don’t be pushy, and allow people to withdraw comfortably.
