Seven questions to ask before choosing a matchmaker
A matchmaking consultation should help both sides understand whether working together makes sense. You will likely be asked about your goals. It is also your opportunity to ask clear questions about the service you are considering.
Bring a short list and take notes. Specific answers matter more than a polished description of a process. If something would affect your decision, ask for it to be explained before you commit.
Understand the search and the people involved
Ask who would manage your search, who would communicate with you, and how candidate sourcing would reflect your preferences. Ask what happens when the initial brief needs to change. A good discussion distinguishes the approach the company describes from the scope actually proposed for you.
Ask what screening means
Which checks apply to this service, who performs them, and what are their limits? The word ‘screened’ can describe different activities. Ask for an explanation of actual practices rather than filling in the gaps yourself. No introduction should be treated as a reason to abandon your own judgment or personal boundaries.
Understand information sharing
Ask what a prospective match would learn about you, when photos or identifying details would be shared, and how you would express preferences around disclosure. Discuss who can access an application and how to request a correction or deletion. A general promise of discretion should lead to a practical conversation about how information is handled.
Make the agreement concrete
Ask how introductions and feedback work, what communication to expect, and what happens if circumstances change. Then ask about the exact fees, scope, duration and any cancellation terms in the agreement you would sign. Do not assume a marketing description includes a particular number of introductions, travel arrangements or a promised result.
Your seven starting questions are: Who manages my search? How are candidates sourced? What screening applies? What information is shared? How do introductions and feedback work? What exactly would my agreement include? What happens if my needs change? You should leave with a clearer picture of your options, whether or not you decide to proceed.