About this Video

• Video Title: I Hired A Pickup Artist To Help Me Find A Girlfriend
• Channel: Tim Ferriss
• Speakers: Tim Ferriss, Samy (hacker), Neil Strauss (pickup artist), Amy Anderson (matchmaker), Justine, Annie, Emily
• Duration: 00:22:56

Introduction

This video documents Tim Ferriss's experiment in dating, where he employs three distinct methods: online dating optimized by a hacker, a cold approach guided by a pickup artist, and a matchmaker's service. The purpose is to scientifically analyze and quantify the effectiveness of each approach, ultimately seeking a better understanding of the dating process.

Key Takeaways

• Data-driven approach to dating: Tim uses data analysis and automation to optimize his online dating profile and messaging.
• Cold approach techniques: He learns and applies techniques from a pickup artist to approach women in person, focusing on spontaneous, non-threatening interactions.
• Matchmaking as an alternative: He explores matchmaking as a low-volume, high-yield approach, highlighting the value of professional assessment.
• Photo optimization: The importance of choosing effective profile photos is emphasized, utilizing data analysis to determine which photos receive the best response.
• Multiple methods and individual suitability: The experiment demonstrates that different dating methods have varying pros and cons, and the best approach depends on individual circumstances and preferences.

The transcript details three methods Tim Ferriss used to find a girlfriend:

Method 1: Online Dating Optimization (with Samy)

• Data Scraping: Samy downloaded every profile from a dating site (presumably OK Cupid, based on later references) into a local database.
• Automated Filtering: A program assessed women's writing ability (grading text using algorithms) and filtered out profiles below a certain grade level (7th grade). A spam filter-like program learned to exclude profiles unlikely to appeal to Tim based on past discarded profiles.
• Profile Optimization: Tim used OK Cupid's "best face" feature to get data on what types of photos performed best, revealing preferences (e.g., photos with animals). Samy's data analysis further informed photo choices (looking away from the camera, etc.).

Method 2: Cold Approach (with Neil Strauss)

• Spontaneous Approach: Tim learned to approach groups of women spontaneously, aiming to appear as if he's about to leave. This contrasts with the tendency to overthink or hesitate.
• Neutral Opening: He practiced using a casual, neutral question to initiate conversation, rather than a direct pickup line. The example given was asking about a cashmere sweater for a friend.
• Hook Point: This involves finding a reason to exchange contact information after the initial interaction.

Method 3: Matchmaking (with Amy Anderson)

• In-person Interview: Amy conducted an in-person interview with Tim to gauge his personality, preferences, and compatibility. This allowed her to understand how Tim interacts with others.
• Algorithmic Matching: Amy, like online dating sites, uses algorithms to match clients with suitable partners based on data collected during the interview.
• Limited Sample Size: The Matchmaker approach, while potentially high yield, is inherently limited by the number of potential matches she can provide.