How Does it Work?

There are three main types of dating agency: personal introductions, computer comparison and the 'lists' method.

1. Personal Introductions

This is the most expensive kind of introduction service, but is also generally considered to be the most effective. Your details are scrutinised by the agency staff and compared with other members of the agency so that you can be matched up accordingly. Whilst the actual match-making methods vary from one agency to another, in all cases it is a very considered approach to finding people a partner, as the agents not only know all their clients' requirements, but can also match up personality types more effectively. Furthermore, they can build up their knowledge of their clients by receiving feedback from their members.

2. Computer Comparison

Companies such as Dateline (the UK's largest agency) use the computer matching method of introduction, sorting members' compatibility by comparing their details. You fill in a form, either by post or email, including details such as likes and dislikes, personality traits and the type of person who you would like to meet, then the computer gets to work.

The system compares details such as age, height, education, religion and skin colouring, attaching a certain amount of relevance to each of these attributes depending on the level of importance which you have assigned. The computer then produces a list of details that match your own requirements - well, in theory, anyway! You are generally given a one-off list of contacts, usually with the opportunity to receive an additional list every month at a nominal cost. Photos are not normally included in this list, although other details of the potential match are provided such as name, location, mobile number, email address, or any combination of these.

Computer matching can only be as reliable as the information you provide, so if you aren't completely honest about yourself or specific enough about the sort of person you want to meet, it is likely to be a waste of time for everyone.

3. The 'Lists' method

Representing the cheapest kind of dating agency, this is a kind of pen-pal service, which for a one-off fee will provide you with a list of members that match your criteria in terms of age, location, and so on. These agencies don't usually offer any one-to-one interviews, although agencies vary in their working practices.

You will usually be matched up with around 20-30 people based on your age, where you live and your profession. After these details are sent to you, it is left entirely up to you to make the next move and contact them by the requested method - by phone, email or post.