About a year ago, my friend Dianne called me and I could tell she was excited.
After 2 years of being single again, she had joined an on-line dating site. And she was getting
some attention! Now that she has almost one year of on-line dating experience, she has put
together a great list of suggestions to keep you safe while still meeting people and
having fun. I really look forward to her entertaining stories of dates that didn’t work
out at all. And who knows? One day she might meet someone who will sweep her off her feet
and eliminate the need for that on-line dating service all together.
Set up the date over the phone and use ‘block caller I.D.’
Tip: Listening to a person talk is different from corresponding via e-mail; and listen to sounds in the background
Let someone know your date itinerary and person you are meeting; don’t change these plans
Ask the person if you will recognize him/her from the photo and when the photo was taken
Tip: If your date is not being honest about the way he/she looks, will your date be honest about other issues
Consider double dating on the first date
Always be on time
Trust your instincts; if at any time it doesn’t feel right, politely end the date
Guard personal information; don’t provide your full name, home address, phone number or place of business until you have gotten to know this person much better
Agree to meet in a public place that you are familiar with but one where you are not well known
Keep the first meeting short; consider setting a time limit as to how long you will meet
Agree to split the tab so that there are no hard feelings if this meeting doesn’t lead to another
Rather than going to dinner for a first or second meeting, meet at a coffee shop or lunch spot
Always be mindful of your surroundings and your purse or wallet
Don’t leave food or beverages unattended
Watch your alcohol consumption
Don’t be too quick to trust this person especially if he/she is coming on strong with compliments and flattery
Be yourself and don’t lie or stretch any truths
Don’t start bashing a previous relationship or spouse; be positive and upbeat
Ask lots of questions and listen to the answers; you will learn more from listening than from talking
Use good manners, dress appropriately and be mindful of your language
Even if you feel a romantic connection on the first meeting, avoid kissing or hugging
Make sure you are not followed after the date; consider scheduling a stop other than your home after the date
