Global Love Report – January 28th, 2026

Many matchmakers work with clients who have strong profiles, solid backgrounds, and a genuine desire to build a serious relationship. Yet when those clients go on a first date, the results can be underwhelming. The conversation during the date may feel awkward, lose momentum, or never move beyond surface-level topics. This can be confusing for clients and frustrating for matchmakers, especially when there is no obvious reason why the connection did not progress.

The Question Deficit and Why Conversations Stall

In November 2025, Hinge released its D.A.T.E. (Data, Advice, Trends, Expertise) Report based on a survey of more than 30,000 users. The report found that while most people want deeper and more meaningful connections, many feel unsure about how to begin those conversations early on. Hinge refers to this gap between intention and action as the “Communication Gap,” highlighting how difficult it can be for people to initiate meaningful dialogue, even when they genuinely want to connect.

The same report also identified another common issue known as the “Question Deficit.” This occurs when someone believes they are actively engaging in conversation, while their date feels they are not being asked enough thoughtful questions. According to the data, 85% of daters are more likely to want a second date when they are asked meaningful questions. However, in practice, many conversations stay focused on safe topics such as work, routines, or general interests. Without thoughtful questions, conversations often remain on the surface and fail to build an emotional connection.

This issue is not tied to age, background, or experience. Busy professionals, senior executives, and clients returning to dating after a long break often face the same challenge. Matchmakers frequently hear feedback such as, “They were nice, but the conversation didn’t really flow,” or “I wasn’t sure what to talk about after the first few minutes.” In many cases, these patterns are already visible during the initial consultation stage.

What Matchmakers Can Do to Support Their Clients

Beyond making introductions, as matchmakers, you can help your clients prepare for better interactions and more successful first dates. Here are some tips:

  1. Understanding the Client’s Communication Style: One of the most important ways a matchmaker can help is by understanding how a client communicates. During consultations, it is helpful to explore where conversations usually slow down, which topics feel most natural, and whether the client tends to dominate the conversation, stay too quiet, or hold back out of caution. Some clients rely heavily on work-related topics because they feel safe, while others avoid personal questions because they worry about sharing too much too soon.
  2. Guiding Clients With Simple Conversation Topics: Once a matchmaker understands a client’s communication style, they can offer simple and flexible conversation guidance. Instead of generic icebreakers, matchmakers can suggest questions that feel natural and easy to use. Questions like, “What have you been enjoying most in your free time lately?” or “What small things usually make your day better?” invite more personal sharing without putting pressure on either person. 
  3. Reviewing Dates and Building Awareness: The matchmaker’s role does not end once the date has taken place. Reviewing the date with the client helps build awareness and confidence over time. Discussing what felt comfortable, where the client hesitated, and what they might try differently next time helps clients see dating as a process they can learn from, rather than a pass-or-fail experience.
  4. Practice and Preparation Before the Next Date: Some matchmakers also help clients prepare by practicing how conversations might unfold. This can include talking through common dating scenarios, discussing how to handle pauses in conversation, or thinking ahead about how to move from light topics to more meaningful ones. In some cases, matchmakers have clients practice with an in-house dating coach or another team member, which may be included in their coaching package. This kind of preparation can reduce anxiety and help clients feel more prepared when they meet their next match.
  5. When to Recommend a Dating Coach: The best time to recommend a dating coach is when additional support is needed beyond what practice sessions or matchmaking guidance can provide. If a client continues to struggle with confidence, readiness, or conversation despite preparation, a dating coach becomes the most effective option. Dating coaches help clients work on their confidence, self-awareness, and overall dating readiness so that when they return to matchmaking, they are better prepared for the date.

With thoughtful consultations, clear guidance, honest feedback, and the right support when needed, matchmakers can help clients bridge the conversation gap. In a dating environment where many interactions move quickly and stay on the surface, this steady and practical approach helps clients show up more confidently and create better dating experiences.