Most men dream of being a sophisticated and confident dater, an expert on women and how to attract them, a James Bond in a crowd of floundering amateurs. And some men actually do it for a living. What's it like to be a go-to-guy for love and dating advice? We asked Dating Guru James Preece.
Relationships on Female First
THE BURNING QUESTION
Do dating experts really get all the girls?
When I was single, I used to find it hard [to attract women] as women expected me to be a ‘player’ and were cautious about whether I was genuine or not. Once they found out I was a nice guy then they'd let their guard down, but sometimes it would take a while for them to stop being defensive.
After dating hundreds of women I finally met ‘The One’ so nowadays I use my knowledge and experience to help others.
THE SOCIAL LIFE
How do people other people react when you tell them you're a professional dating guru?
The vast majority of people are intrigued by what I do and want to find out more... It's a great icebreaker when I meet new people as they always want to talk about what I do! People are generally keen to pick up new tips to help in their social, love and business lives.
Do your skills in dating intimidate your friends?
My friends are more interested by it than anything else. However, not all of them are willing to take my advice!
THE PERKS
What are the bonuses of the job?
There are quite a few perks, such as being able to get into parties, clubs and restaurants. I'm able to use my skills to build rapport quickly so I'm able to influence, persuade and get what I want...most of the time!
THE DOWNSIDES
What are the drawbacks of the job?
It's very hard to switch off when I'm helping a client, so it's a 24/7 job. If someone has a question and needs my help, it's often urgent so I have to answer as fast as I can, no matter what I'm doing.
THE REALITY
It can’t be all chat-up lines and mingling, what is a typical working day like for a dating expert?
Each day can be different. Some days I can be consulting for dating companies, advising them how they can get more business and how to help their customers. Or I could be writing articles for magazines. Then I host singles parties in the evening and seminars at the weekend. On top of all this, I try and coach for at least 4 hours a day. As you can see I'm extremely busy but that's the way I like it!
Is it harder work than people might think?
It's incredibly hard work as each person I help is different. However, it's also very fun and rewarding. I absolutely love what I do. There's not greater joy than helping someone find love!
WHAT DOES IT TAKE?
What are the basic rules for any wannabe dating expert?
Always give clients 110 per cent, and keep your promises. If I don't know the answer [to a question] I'll make sure I find out - fast. I always try to be honest as my clients are paying me to help them, not to offer them false promises.
What is the key to success?
A lot of what I teach is common sense but the secret is getting them [clients] to listen and take action! I've worked a long time to build up my reputation so I know that what I teach really works.
Many people claim to be dating experts and dating coaches but most are still single! My biggest qualification is that I used all my own advice to meet my wife.
James Preece is a Dating Coach and Expert. For more information visit www.jamespreece.com.
By Natalie Littlewood.
tagged in Love dating Dating Expert Careers