1. Speed is of the essence
One evening, one date? That's so last year! Instead, have 15 four-minute dates and spread your options! There are loads of speed-dating companies around who organise evenings where you drink, chat and see who takes your fancy. So take a friend for support, a pencil to tick your sheet with and who knows, you may just find a diamond amongst the rough!

2. Let your fingers do the talking
Sign up to a reputable online dating agency and, at the click of a mouse, watch the dates flood in. It's great for those who work long hours, are shy or think it's just too difficult to meet people in the hectic 21st century.

3. A meeting of minds
Enrol at an evening class and you're already guaranteed to have something in common. Whether your passion is for astronomy, birdwatching or knitting, it's the little things that bring people together...

4. Mix business with pleasure
You spend most of your waking hours at work, so chances are you're going to get to know your colleagues quite well. How well is up to you! Just beware - office romances can be great fun, but be careful that you don't lose your cool or your job!

5. Man's best friend
And woman's too! When walking your mutt, do some talent-spotting. Pick strategic routes which take you pass local eye-candy in action, such as rugby grounds, tennis courts and so on. And look out for sexy joggers and cyclists too!