Set your goal and build a shortlist

A clear goal makes every later step easier.

Write your goal in one sentence

Here are three examples. 'I want to feel at ease on a first date.' 'I want a profile that shows who I am.' 'I want to be introduced to people who want a partner.'

Your goal tells you which kind of help to look at first. A coach teaches skills. A matchmaker screens candidates and introduces you to partners.

Build a shortlist of three

Look at two or three businesses. Do not look at only one. For each one, read its own website and write down:

• Who it works with.
• Its format: in person, video, phone, group or self-paced.
• Every price it publishes, and what each price covers.
• Whether the intro call is free.
• Where it says it trained.

Use one comparison sheet

Put the facts for all three businesses in one sheet. Use these rows: works with people like me, format I can use, total cost for all sessions, what is included, and how it handles a stop. Leave a cell empty if you do not know the answer. Then ask the business to fill it.

Prices change

Write the date you read each price. Prices change. Check the provider page again before you pay.

Sources

• Dating Coaches Directory guide, How to choose a dating coach or matchmaker (updated 2026-10-20)
• Dating Coaches Directory, How to Vet a Dating Coach (updated 2026-10-21)