Kate Taylor, dating expert from Match.com, has helped us put together some tips on how you can create the perfect balance and make the most of work and dating.
Relationships on Female First
Be Aware of Image
“To be dated, you must look dateable. And yes, you can do this at work without becoming unprofessional – in fact, looking dateable and looking professional are the same. Keep a tidy, organised desk; wear clean, ironed clothes; don’t gossip; don’t share messy details of your personal life; don’t make or take hundreds of personal calls. All these things will raise your image into that of a well-rounded and capable person.”
Close the Deal
“Don’t let dates tail off with a vague, “I’ll call you…” Instead, suggest an interesting venue for meeting up again. Follow up dates with a brief thank-you text, and return calls when you say you will. Show yourself as a person who keeps their word and you’ll be sought-after in the business world, and after 5.30pm.”
Make A To-Do List
“Just as these help you focus on work tasks, they can also help you concentrate on making dating a priority. Don’t allow yourself to think that finding love is something that “just happens” to people. If you thought that way about work, would you get very far? Instead, set easily achievable goals to widen your social circle – if you’re online dating it might be “I’m going to write to five new people online this week”; or “I’m going to ask that new colleague out for lunch today”; “I’m going to ask my friend for Tom’s phone number right now,” – that will actively help your search for a great relationship.”
Get A Date Diary
“In the UK we are susceptible to ‘long hours culture’, but try to keep a close eye on your diary and work schedule to set clear boundaries about when you can and can’t work late. Don’t regularly cancel dates to stay late and finish that presentation - you shouldn’t work late at the expense of your love life and personal happiness.
If you regularly have to work late and don’t have the time to meet new people, consider online dating as this is a great way of widening your social circle and meeting like-minded people who also have hectic schedules. Think about when you organise your dates – if you prefer working late it might be easier to meet for a quick coffee.”
Create Objectives
“Think about the kind of person you’d like to date, then act accordingly. Many of us long to meet people outside our normal sphere of life, but never bother to think about where they actually are. Think about the lifestyle your ideal partner would have – be it creative, sporty, bookish, adventurous, nature-loving, whatever – and take up activities that get you into those places. Not only will this improve your chances of meeting the right type of person, it’ll give you things in common when you do.”
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