Speed dating can feel like you’re getting nowhere sometimes. You sit across from someone new every few minutes, trying to say something more interesting than “So, what do you do?” It can be a nightmare of eye contacts, laughs, and awkward pauses.
But in those things, you might even find a hint of real chemistry. Those first few seconds matter a lot.
So, if you’re going to a speed dating event and want to stand out, here are six fun icebreakers to help you skip the small talk.
1. What’s an Unpopular Opinion You Secretly Stand By?
This question adds the much-needed fun energy to a speed dating event, and can be an interesting way to learn about the other person’s interests, mindset, and values.
They might say something slightly controversial but not really serious, like, “Pineapple belongs on pizza,” or something a bit deeper like, “I think that friends are overrated.”
Whatever the answer is, it gives you something to talk and lightly argue about. This keeps the energy flowing and can bring out people’s authenticity in minutes.
2. What’s the Weirdest Text You’ve Ever Gotten?
Everyone has a weird text or DM story. It could be a random wild request from a scammer or a long love confession from a stranger. The answer can lead to laughs and maybe even some shared experiences.
It opens the door to relatable discussion, and might even give you something to bond over – like, you might realise you’ve had eerily similar dating experiences.
3. If Your Life Were a Movie, What Would It Be Called?
This is your moment to get a little creative and have your own answer ready, too. Their answer can give you major insight into how the other person sees themselves.
The question itself might not seem too deep, but it is a subtly introspective one. Plus, it can lead to conversations about favourite movies or other chaotic life moments.
4. What’s Something Normal That You Dislike?
You might be surprised by the answers that this question brings out. Someone might say “wet socks,” which is understandable, or you might get something weirdly specific like, “people who overuse the term ‘bro.’”
It reveals people’s quirks quickly while keeping the conversation light and funny. Whether you get a silly answer or a serious one, it will be a fun exchange.
5. What’s Something on Your Bucket List People Don’t Know About?
If the situation allows or the vibes match, you can go a tiny bit deeper and ask this question. Just remember that more than deep, it’s a personal one. And some people might not be comfortable answering.
But asking about hidden dreams, no matter how small, can shift the conversation from surface level to surprisingly sweet. Vulnerability can do wonders for building a connection.
6. What’s Your Go-To Song?
This one might sound basic or cliché, but it’s not one of those boring questions that kill the conversation entirely. It’s an upbeat, non-invasive question that can sometimes tell you about a person’s personality.
Although music alone is not a good judge of personality, it can be a reflection of someone’s mood or state of mind. It’s also connected to emotions and memories.
Maybe you can ask them why they like that specific song, and take the conversation to a more intimate level.