Online Dating Etiquette
By Lisa Steadman, The Relationship Journalist™
As an ItsJustCoffee.com member, chances are, this isn’t the first time you’ve ventured into the world of online dating. While it was once considered a taboo way to meet someone, online dating is now part of our everyday reality. And that’s great! You never know who you’ll meet. However, it’s important to remember that the people you meet online are virtual strangers and a certain set of etiquette should be followed during those first few dates. Below is a refresher course on how to manage your online dating life.
Keep It Simple
At ItsJustCoffee.com, we recommend your first date be a coffee date. After all, you’re meeting a stranger for the first time. It’s best to keep this initial meeting short, safe, simple. Always meet in a public place. Tell a friend where you’re going and when you’re meeting your date. And be sure to call that friend when you’ve left the date (you know how friends worry!).
Avoid the Too Much Too Soon Syndrome
It’s important for your own safety not to reveal too much personal information about yourself like where you live or where you work until you feel comfortable with the person you’re dating. At least hold off until you’ve met them in person and establish a rapport.
Take your time, physically speaking, too. It’s important that you feel safe with the person you meet online. Rushing things physically may create a false sense of security in a relationship that might otherwise be shaky. Take your time and listen to your gut feelings.
Be Honest
Not every person you meet online is going to be Mr. or Ms. Right. And as difficult as rejection is, it’s a necessary component in the dating world. So be honest. Don’t string someone along or blow them off. If you’re not comfortable being honest in person, call them on the phone or send them an email. Let them down gently and fairly (remember, it’s tough out there!). Besides, you don’t want any bad dating karma coming back around to you, right?!
Keep Your Options Open
So you never heard back from the hot blonde with the killer smile. That bookish brunette just might light your fire. Give ‘em a chance. You never know!
Good luck and happy dating!
Lisa Steadman, AKA The Relationship Journalist™, studies relationships and dating for a living. In addition to her work here, she also edits the site www.BreakupChronicles.com.
Got questions or article ideas? Email Lisa at RelationshipJournalist@itsjustcoffee.com.
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