5 Tips for Successfully Navigating a MatzoBall Bash

You’ve placed your Chinese takeout order and chosen your movie for tomorrow. But what about tonight, the night when Jewish singles (and non singles) take control of metropolitan partying throughout the country (the world?)? If you’re planning to join the party hopping Hebrews at the Matzoballs, falafel fests and borsht bashes on this Xmas eve, here are a few things to keep in mind to help you come out a winner, and a mench.

1. Social Proof
If possible, try to go with a friend or two. Most women already do that, but lots of guys like to fly solo. In most settings there isn’t necessarily anything wrong with going solo. But dark clubs with loud music tend to make it more difficult for the solo artist to get attention. Women are also more on the lookout for the multitude of sleazy characters that tend to populate the shadowy corners of these venues scoping out their targets and waiting to pounce at the slightest opening. So the ladies tend to travel in defensive formation and be less inviting than usual.

If you’re with friends, you’ve got a form of social proof that allows woman to relax their guard a bit. After all, you’ve got friends which means you’re not some loner, psycho, potential serial killer (for the most part). If you’ve got a mutual friend in common, then you’re in without a problem! (that’s why Jzoog profiles display mutual friends)

But remember, choose your wingmen carefully.

2. Be Friendly
This goes for men and women. You don’t need to spend a half hour talking to someone you aren’t interested in, but you can take a minute to be friendly and responsive. You can also be friendly when you tell the person that you need to move on. Follow the advice that the great Patrick Swayze gave his bouncers in the classic Roadhouse: be nice (until I tell you to stop being nice).

3. Network
I know, you came to this party to meet the love of your life — or at least the love of your night — but don’t ignore the huge opportunity you’ve got to meet a ton of great people, and contacts. The more people you know the better your chances of meeting the “right” people (or person) in the future. So don’t blow this opportunity by ignoring anyone who you aren’t interested in romantically. Meet and be nice to as many people as possible. Build your reputation as a friendly and social person. It will pay off in the future.

4. Metrics of Success
Building on #4, try your best to get numbers and form love connections, but don’t get down on yourself if you don’t. Your goal should be to enjoy yourself. So have fun meeting new people and socializing with friends. Keep having fun and meeting people, and the love connections will follow. If not tonight, then next time.

5. The bitter end
You don’t need to be there to lock up. If you’ve done your best and feel like you’re done, then trust that feeling and leave. If you’re lucky enough to be leaving with friends or a special someone, mazal tov. If you’re leaving solo, that’s ok too. Pick your chin up and come back to fight another day. But don’t hang around until the cleaning crew throws you out. You’ll feel like such a loser. Hail a cab and get some rest. You’ve got Chinese and movies to look forward to tomorrow!

Any other tips you’d like to share? Please do so in the comments below.