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Dating Matchmaker

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First things first and in case you didn't know...

 

A matchmaker is a professional who helps individuals find compatible romantic partners. They use their expertise in human behaviour, relationship dynamics, and networking to connect people based on shared values, interests, and goals.

 

Matchmakers often work independently or as part of agencies, offering personalised services such as coaching, date planning, and relationship advice.

 

The role is growing in popularity as more people seek tailored, professional help in finding love.

Key skills/talents

The following are a few key skills that would be helpful, if you’re looking to become a Matchmaker...

  • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build trust and rapport with clients.

  • Communication Skills: Excellent listening and verbal communication to understand client needs.

  • Empathy: Understanding and relating to clients’ emotions and experiences.

  • Networking Skills: Building a wide network of potential matches.

  • Discretion: Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

  • Sales and Marketing Skills: Promoting services and attracting clients.

  • Psychology Knowledge: Understanding human behaviour and relationship dynamics.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Resolving conflicts and addressing client concerns.

  • Organisational Skills: Managing multiple clients and schedules efficiently.

  • Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and preferences.

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​Qualifications required

While there are no educational requirements to become a matchmaker in the UK, the following qualifications can enhance your credibility and success:

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Rules and regs

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For insurance, some recommended policies (with provider examples) to look into, are:

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Remuneration framework

Well now, this is an interesting topic…

 

Annabel is starting out, so is very much on the cheaper end of things (and by ‘cheaper end’, we mean crazy cheap in comparison to others). She also has strong feelings about what others charge, and as we discuss in the pod chat, she paid a matchmaking service (circa 10 years ago) £5k - yep, £5k! And she only got a handful of dates, none of which were remotely right.

 

Research shows that a lot of ‘professional’ matchmaking services, usually London-based, charge around £8-10k for 8-12 months on their books, and provide about 8 dates over a year, most of which you can’t see pictures of in advance. Now these agencies meet you and take ‘professional’ pictures of you, so their operating costs are a lot higher.

 

… Either way, ‘in theory’, there’s good money to be made… However, one can’t help wondering how many people would actually pay those fees for such a service, particularly in today's cost of living crisis.

 

… Ergo, the need for Annabel’s VERY really reasonable £195 fee. Which is amazing! Particularly given that it is her only fee right now.

 

Moving forward, Annabel will be amending her pricing and most likely charging a monthly subscription fee as well; so if we run the maths of that, and we say that it’s maybe £40 a month. Times that by 100 people who are active on your books at any time one, then that’s £4k a month coming in, plus their £195 set-up fees. 200 people on your books is £8k a month, however, be mindful that the more people you have, the more support you will need (200 people is not a one-man job), which means your operating costs will go up.

 

These numbers do sound pretty good. However, there is A LOT of time of effort that’s got to earn that fee, so if you can’t devote the hours to this (and if you don’t have the necessary connection and networking skills), then this probably isn’t the career for you.

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How to get started

To start a career as a matchmaker, begin by researching the industry to understand the matchmaking business and its unique challenges. Websites like the UK Matchmaking Association offer valuable insights into the profession. 

 

Next, and if you’re someone that likes to feel ‘qualified’, gain some relevant skills by taking courses in psychology, relationship coaching, or business management, which can provide a strong foundation for understanding human behaviour and running a successful business. 

 

Consider also enrolling in a matchmaking certification program, such as the one offered by the Matchmaking Institute (linked above), to enhance your credibility and expertise. 

 

If you’re going it alone, consider whether you want to be a dating service for all, or for a specific region (like Annabel), or indeed a specific age group (i.e. under 30s or over 50s). Or even a specific career genre like the armed forces, medical or law - where hours are long and meeting someone who understands that is key.

 

Building a strong network is also crucial, so attend industry events and join online communities to connect with potential clients and peers. 

 

Finally, market your services effectively by leveraging social media platforms, creating a professional website, and networking both online and offline to attract clients and grow your business. Social media presence really will make or break your ‘brand’, so invest some time to do it well, and do it regularly.

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Job site links

There are several pathways to pursue a career as a matchmaker in the UK. One option is to apply (and gain experience and knowledge) through an established UK matchmaking agency, such as Drawing Down the Moon or Seventy Thirty, which offer opportunities to work with experienced professionals and build your expertise:

https://www.drawingdownthemoon.co.uk

https://www.seventythirty.com

 

Attending industry conferences or networking events, such as those hosted by the UK Matchmaking Association, can also help you connect with potential employers and stay updated on industry trends; as will following the right companies and groups on social media.

 

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, like Annabel, starting your own business is a popular route and many matchmakers in the UK begin as independent consultants, allowing them to build their brand and tailor their services to their unique strengths.

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Associations or official bodies to register with

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Progression pathway​

This is a tricky one, and like we always say, progression is down to you and what your ambitions (personal and financial) are.

 

Assuming you are going via the self-employed, independent route, then it really is a case of growing your business via the information, forums and events we have already suggested.

 

The key thing to your success, however, and the ride or die of it, will be the dating pool you attract and nurture, which is why Annabel is looking to expand her geographical region beyond Norfolk.

 

The more people in your pool, the more attractive your service is. Furthermore, the quality of your dating pool is key, to ensure that you have ‘good’ people for your customer base. People have never been pickier when it comes to finding a match, so it’s vital that you have a rich mix of viable, datable people to help.

 

If you get the quantity and the quality of your pool right, and if you are promoting yourself effectively on social media, then the world really is your oyster.

 

The dating world is at its most critical point, and the amount of single people, and even ‘sexless’ people is HUGE and rising at an alarming rate… If you can crack your matchmaking service offering, and if you charge a reasonable fee, you will most likely have a thriving business to enjoy and grow.

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Additional Information/links

https://www.datingadvice.com

https://www.thematchmakersguide.com

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ask-a-matchmaker/id1521530338

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/dates-mates-with-damona-hoffman/id606100490

https://www.globalloveconference.com

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