The goal of this method is to facilitate rapid introductions among participants, encouraging the exchange of ideas and personal experiences in a lively and engaging setting.

“Speed Dating” is a dynamic and fast-paced networking activity. It adapts the concept of speed dating for interpersonal exchange, allowing participants to meet many individuals in a short period. This method is excellent for breaking the ice, encouraging direct engagement, and making the session's start more engaging and less formal.

Arrange participants to face each other in two lines. If chairs are available, they can be used to sit opposite each other in two rows or circles. If there are no chairs or the activity is outdoors, participants can simply stand facing each other in two lines.

Briefly explain the purpose of the activity and how it will run. Inform participants that they will have 2-3 minutes for each conversation, and each round will begin with a new question provided by the facilitator. Emphasize the importance of being respectful and listening actively to their partners.

Provide participants with the first question to discuss. Use a timer to keep track of the discussion period, ensuring that conversations do not exceed the allotted time. This helps maintain the pace of the activity and allows everyone to engage with multiple partners.

When the timer goes off, signal participants to conclude their discussions. Instruct one row or the outer circle to move one seat to the right, ensuring each participant faces a new partner. Quickly provide the next question for discussion before starting the timer again.

Repeat Step 4 for each round, providing a new question each time the participants switch. Ensure smooth transitions between rounds to keep the energy high and participants engaged. Adjust the number of rounds as needed based on your total duration and the energy level of the group.

Once all rounds are complete, bring the group together for a debriefing session. Encourage participants to share their experiences, any interesting discoveries they made about their peers, and reflections on the activity as a whole. This helps solidify the connections made during the activity and provides closure.

As a closing note, encourage participants to further any particularly interesting or meaningful conversations they had during the activity. Suggest that they seek out individuals they connected with during breaks or after the session to continue building those relationships.

• If there's an odd number of participants, consider joining in as a facilitator to ensure everyone has a partner or create a scenario where the extra participant takes a break during each rotation.

• Use a timer to keep each round to 2-3 minutes. This helps maintain the pace of the activity and ensures that all participants get to meet each other without running out of time.

• Signal the end of each round clearly and efficiently to keep the activity moving. This can be done with a bell, a whistle, or simply by saying "switch".