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What signs to look for when you date online?

You’ve made the leap, congrats! You’ve decided to date online. Maybe 10 years ago, it might have been taboo but people are dating online more now than ever. If this is a new experience, it can be quite intimidating.   Do not fret. Here are some helpful tips on deciding whether a potential mate is good for you.

Make sure they have more than one picture. One of a close up of their face and a full body photo. If this person is confident in who they are and they are ready for something serious, this should not be an issue. You want to avoid any horror stories of meeting someone that didn’t exactly look like their photos.

In addition to this, you might want to ask them for a recent photo just in case.

Read their profile.   You might get enchanted by a pretty face but don’t forget that looks fade. If you’re looking for a long term relationship, make sure their profile vibes with you.
Make sure to have a well written profile yourself. If you’re not looking for some specific features in a person (i.e. someone with kids) then specify that. It will help weed out someone that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for.
Do not meet in person without talking on the phone first. Sometimes personality does not portray itself the best in just writing. You have to know whether this person is someone you could spend 2-3 hours with. You are going to spend one on one time with them for about that amount of time. This doesn’t completely prevent a bad date from occurring but it deters you on going on a date with someone that will bore you to tears.
Don’t be afraid to say “no” to an online date. There are some very desperate people out there. You don’t have to date everyone who asks you. Remember, quality not quantity. Trust your gut. If that person doesn’t fit your wants and needs, then don’t waste your time.
Finally, meet this person in a public place. There are too many crazy stories out there with people meeting people online and someone gets hurt. Make sure to make yourself a number one priority in your own safety.

I would like to add that when you date online it can be just as safe as meeting someone through a friend or a public place. The additional benefit is that you get to know them before going on a date with them which gets rid of the awkward silences and finding out that maybe this person has nothing in common with you. Take care of yourself first and you will be fine.

Here are some things I talk about in the podcast:

Patti Stangers Book Become Your Own Matchmaker: 8 Easy Steps for Attracting Your Perfect Mate

My own experience when I didnt see a picture beforehand Bad Date 4 - The Really Blind Date

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