Dos And Donts Of Online Dating - What Is It And How It Can Help You

By Sarah Price


Unless they are surrounded by men at work, be it at a NASCAR race track, beef 'n' ale house, or the urologist's office, many women go online to find their better half. Millions of men turn to the Internet to find a date as well. Sifting through Mr. Wrongs and Mr. Rights takes some time, but there are certain do's and don'ts of online dating to remember.

Do post an honest description and a recent photo of yourself. If you post a photo of a Cameron Diaz look-alike, your online date will expect to meet a bikini-clad model. Most men are delighted and relieved that their dates look like their pictures and will stay through the crme brule . Do not assume that the photos you get are as accurate and up-to-date as yours. Photoshop can do a great job.

When it comes to the description, think about what is special, distinctive, unique, and impressive about you and your life. What events, stories, personal and family challenges, and people have shaped or influenced your life and goals? Did you learn anything valuable from past relationships and what are your relationship and life goals? Have you had physical, familial, or economic hardships and obstacles you had to overcome? What personal characteristics (persistence, compassion, integrity, emotional intelligence) do you possess? How can you best demonstrate your competencies and abilities and what qualities are you looking for in men? If you answer honestly to these questions, you will be able to create a good profile.

Do not be fooled by overused pickup lines and stay away from men who promise bouquets and candlelit dinners. Beware of men who 'love' sunset strolls and snuggling in front of the fireplace. Guys like this are not looking for the love of their life but have one thing on their mind.

If what he says sounds too good to be true, do brush up on your math and add 5 - 10 years to his age, halve his income, double his weight, and subtract a couple of inches from his height. Do not get fooled by photos that may be taken 15 years ago. The photos may be his cousin's and even if they are not, remember that men grow love handles, grow old, and lose hair. If you were to meet them in person, you may find them handsome and charming. And if you are like most women, you probably don't have the looks of Jolie.

Do meet in a public place and choose a safe place, for example, a restaurant. Tell a family member or a friend where you are going and when you expect to return home. Give them the name and phone number of the other person and never ask your date to pick you up from work or your home. You do not want him to know where you live or work or at least not from the very beginning. Use your own transportation and don't allow the other person to follow you.




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