| |
SINGAPORE : Matchmaking agencies in Singapore are thinking out of the box to stay ahead of the competition.
Some are going beyond just providing dating tips and are trying to find ways to help their clients build up relationships.
Over 170 dating agencies are cashing in on the growing pool of singles in Singapore. And as more come on board offering similar services, they are seeking new ways to sustain growth.
It's Just Lunch - which caters to high-income singles like bankers, lawyers and doctors - saw its revenue grow by 25 per cent last year. To stay on top of the game, it has launched Singapore's first "Intercity" dating.
Anisa Hassan, managing director, It's Just Lunch, said: "What we have devised is a way where both of our clients in Singapore and Bangkok can actually meet up, and by expanding the pool of people, that they can potentially meet."
But hooking up singles does not really guarantee sustainable relationship. So the former owner of dating agency, Two to Tango, decided to take up coaching to help singles on how to date and build a relationship.
Kloudiia Tay, principal coach, Love Specialists Pte Ltd, said: "Just running a dating agency where I only match them up is really not enough. There are some fundamentals that really need to be worked on."
By coaching, she believes singles with problems finding a mate can learn to develop sustainable relationships.
She said: "There are people who are over confident. They may come across as not so likable by people from the opposite sex. We also need to help them to tone down a little bit, to really go to the level where when you go out, you will be able to get the person..."
Private dating agencies may see tougher challenges ahead with the upcoming merger of the Social Development Unit and Social Development Service.
But the Association of Dating Agencies and Matchmakers said the merger will help make more singles aware of dating services and create a bigger market for the private sector. - CNA/ms
|
