How to help your friend find love
It’s a familiar scenario: your friend is unattached and you’ve found the perfect gentleman or lady for them. Getting them together should be easy, right? In fact, getting involved in something as personal as a friend’s love life is tricky and potentially catastrophic for the friendship. So take heed of our advice next time you want to match make so it all goes smoothly.
Ask permission
Don’t presume that your friend is unhappy being single or is even looking for love. Many people are content on their own especially if the love of their life has passed so find out if he or she is actually looking or ready to get back in the dating game. You may have the best intentions but if they don’t want your help, your actions may be seen as meddling.
Be thoughtful
Don’t just set your friend up with the first single person you know. They aren’t going to click just because they are both unattached! Think about your friend’s personality, their interests, hobbies, lifestyle, and what they want out of a relationship. Of course, you can’t foresee if sparks will fly but at least if you’ve chosen carefully, they will get along and may even be friends. On the other hand, if you’ve set your up friend without much consideration, they might be offended or insulted that you chose poorly for them.
Do your research
Find out what you can about the potential date for your friend. Appearances can be deceiving so ask around and find out what they are like, background, reputation and history. You don’t want to set your friend up with a dodgy person!
Encourage but don’t push
Encourage your friend to get out there but don’t push them. You may think they’re ready but only they will know. If you’ve set them up with someone, you might feel like you’ve got some say in the relationship but don’t interfere – it’s up to them now.
Manage expectations
Manage your friend’s expectations. Don’t tell them how amazing or perfect the person you found is as that puts unnecessary pressure on a relationships that hasn’t even begun. Similarly, just because you think they will hit it off doesn’t mean they will. Don’t take it personally - your friend will love you anyway for trying to make them happy.
For more great advice on dating or to start searching for love, head over to RSVP now.