If you are fortunate to have astute friends or family members, welcome their suggestions for possible dates. Shadchanim may be professional matchmakers, but there is nothing to beat getting a tip from someone who knows you and cares about you. Always query “What makes you think this is a good idea?”, and listen to the response with respect and attentiveness.
Someone who has gotten to know both parties, is in the best possible position to sense whether it could be a good fit. The problem is that we often struggle to take our friends and family seriously, giving more credence to the view of strangers. When it comes to dating, that would be a big mistake.
