There is apparently a healthy supply of lonely chief executives seeking a well-connected soulmate. A dating service in Sydney has spruiked its founder as being responsible ''for marrying off CEOs of blue chip companies with renowned celebrities and Australia's social elite''.
Elite Introductions International provided no names of who it has married off. But it seems pretty desperate itself to drum up business.
In a media release the agency compared its founder to Patti Stanger, the host of the US reality TV show Millionaire Matchmaker.
''Unlike Patti, I would never do cattle calls with potential dates for my clients, and confrontational mixers are a no-go zone,'' Trudy Gilbert said.
Apparently Gilbert has a ''little black book that many would die for''. Some of Gilbert's suggestions for pheromone-filled dating experiences include sailing, rock climbing and even a dangerous drive.
''Learn how to slide your car sideways and how to get out of a spin. From an advanced driver course to a one hour thrill rally drive, this is one extreme date that will get the heart pumping,'' her website says.
(Source: The Sydney Morning Herald)
Well, here's a sample:
Golden rules for first dates - tips for women on first dates
1) Don't ask how much money your date earns.
This has to be the number one golden rule. I was appalled by how many women actually ask this question followed by What car do you drive? and Do you own your own home?
2) Don't dress too sexy on the first date.
This is not a good idea unless you are hoping for something to happen at the end of the evening.
3) Try and not wear too much make up.
Men have told me over and over that they don't like girls who wear too much make up. The natural look is much better.
4) Don't wear too much jewellery.
If you are divorced, don't continue to wear your wedding ring either.
5) Don't talk about work the whole time.
This is just plain boring for the other person who is not interested in hearing about your career the whole evening.
Golden rules for first dates - tips for men on first dates
1) Plan the date.
A date that is planned is often more successful than a date that is thrown together at the last moment. Guys take note! An easy way to make a good impression from the start is if you have something planned. An unplanned date can still work but why risk it? At least have a back up plan.
2) Never be late.
There is really no need to say anymore. If you are going to be late, at least call first.
3) Be interested in her.
Focus on her by asking her questions and make the effort to find out who she is. I cringe when I hear men talk about themselves the entire evening, leaving the lady bored and frustrated. And remember no wandering eyes either.
4) Be confident.
Women are drawn to confident men. But we carefully as there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance.
5) Be a gentleman.
On a first date I would strongly recommend opening doors for your date, pulling out her chair, and pouring her wine. Sadly, today few men do these acts of chivalry so it is an easy way for you to make a good first impression and stand out from your competition.
6) Offer to pay on the first date.
It does not make a good impression if you don't offer. One of the most unappealing traits women find in men is being stingy. Don't let this be the last impression she has of you at the end of the night.
7) Compliment Her.
Give her a sincere compliment at the end of the night and thank her for the date.
If you follow these tips, you have a good chance she will say yes to a second date!
For more advice about dating, check out Elite Introductions here.
The pic of Ms Gilbert (above) is on her website.
