Online dating is the wave of the future for busy professionals, returnees to the social dating scene, and those who are starting a new career. Whether you just want to try a chat room or have already seen some profiles that interest you, there are ten rules about online dating that every web surfer should know.
1. Plan ahead
Are you looking to just spend some time entertaining yourself in chat rooms? Looking for someone to hang out with on the weekends? Seeking a one night stand? Trying to find Mr. or Ms. Right? Determine your goals for online dating and stick to them - otherwise you might hurt the feelings of others or find yourself scraping up the pieces of another failed relationship.
2. Ask your friends
Many people are finding their relationships with online dating. You'll be surprised to find out that your friends are spending time in chat rooms and sorting through profiles. Ask them what works, and what sites to use. The best advice comes from someone you trust.
3. Pace yourself
Take your time getting to know someone as well as possible. This may mean that at least a phone call is in order. Don't let the other person pressure you into a face-to-face meeting too soon when you are not fully comfortable with the situation.
4. Tell the truth!
If you really want to experience success with an online dating site, you must be honest. While you cannot control the actions of others, maintaining accountability to yourself will thwart the temptation to attach someone else's picture to your profile or lie about your past.
5. Organize and prioritise
Online dating can be overwhelming. It's a lot easier to browse profiles of individuals that you know are looking for a relationship than to strike up a conversation with someone at the bar. Choose a few of the most interesting profiles, take notes, and limit yourself to corresponding with them at first. You can always look again if they don't work out, and this will avoid too much activity and confusing emotions.
6. Not all text is truth
Unfortunately, not everyone will be as honest as you are. It's acceptable to ask for references and check out verifiable information before agreeing to set up a face-to-face meeting. Don't be afraid to ask for background checks or consult public records.
7. Remember courtesy in the chat room
That old adage "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" still applies to online dating. Chat rooms often give people a sense of invincibility. When the fingers start flying, things tend to move fast and have the potential to get steamy. Stop. Think. If you wouldn't say it to a complete stranger face-to-face, don't say it at all.
8. Paying for an online dating service might not be so bad
It is a good idea to invest in you! There are many online dating services that charge a membership fee. Considering that people who are willing to pay for a service might be more serious about who they are and what they want - leading to better relationships.
9. Be timely
Don't have access to the internet everyday? This might cause problems in the online dating world. Those who try this method of socialization like to think they'll receive quick responses. Be available, consider setting aside a specific time to spend in the chat room, and respond to emails in a timely fashion. Otherwise, you might find your potentials losing interest.
10. Remember to keep safe
If your online dating experience is going well, the time will come for you to meet someone face-to-face. Keep your meeting public, and take charge of your own well-being by driving yourself. It's certainly acceptable to have a friend nearby for backup if you are really nervous. Use caution on the first date, and as many subsequent times as it takes for you to feel comfortable.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I ask her?
By: Ryan | 11-07-2008
So yeah, I guess on our end of the year field trip to Lake Compounce in Groton Connecticut on 8th Grade I just then started hanging out with this really nice girl from my school same class named Cali. We REALLY got along together during our whole time there so, you know I started liking her but I wasnt sure if she liked me back. so I asked her friend if she did like me and stuff and she said she liked me during that day at Lake Compounce. but its summer now and shes only gonna be down in groton for 9th grade , because she is navy and all so she has to move around places. but do you think i should ask her out during highschool? i still get to see her but not as often because she lives in a navy housing place which is way far from where i live, probably a couple of miles or 3. so what do you think? her friend recently told me that she still likes me a little
So theres this guy
By: M!CHE | 10-07-2008
there is this guy on my train who i find attractive and lately my curiosity has been driving me wild. i see him a couple times a week but we've never spoken. he may be interested but im not sure...i've thought about starting a conversation with him but he wears his ipod for the entire ride is that a don't talk to me signal? i don't know what to do
Www.maximnet.com - Are free Web cams really free?
By: amber | 10-07-2008
What are free live cams at www.maximnet.com ?
I am a woman and i want to know if there is no ...
By: britney | 07-07-2008
i am a woman and i want to know if there is no difference in dating a guy 4 or 5 years younger than me?
Flash Chat System
By: Reloaded | 06-07-2008
I am trying to create a flash based chat system, encorperating a main server and a client. I want to know if this is possible, and if so, where I can find the required actionscript etc...
Parking for a Class A Motor HOme
By: parkskw | 05-07-2008
What are parking allowances at a private residence for a Class A Motor Home in Phoenix Arizona?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Dating Articles
How to Argue Fairly - Part 2
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Learning how to argue fairly can be very beneficial to the longevity of your relationship. Because arguements are often fueled by intense emotions it is wise to adhere to specific guidelines when arguing so you can avoid anything that will cause irreparable damage in the relationship. Here are further guidelines on how to argue fairly.
How to Argue Fairly - Part 1
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Learning how to argue fairly can be very beneficial to the longevity of your relationship. Because arguements are often fueled by intense emotions it is wise to adhere to specific guidelines when arguing so you can avoid anything that will cause irreparable damage in the relationship. Here are some guidelines on how to argue fairly.
How to Argue Your Point
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Most of us are never taught how to argue your point effectively so we can reach a productive outcome. Often times we argue in a destructive manner and don't resovle our conflicts because of it. Until you discover how to argue your point effectively you can cause significant damage to your relationships, both business and personal. Here are some guidelines on how to argue your point.
What Do Couples Argue About?
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Anyone in a relationship will argue with their partners. It is inevitable. Did you ever wonder what do other couples argue about? Likely they are arguing about the same things that you and your partner argue about. Arguing is normal and it shouldn't be avoided. It really can be used to help bring forth issues and concerns that couples have so they can learn more about each other and bring themselves closer together. So what do couples argue about?
Top Five Things to Say to a Girlfriend After an Argument
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Avoiding arguments is probably not healthy and sooner or later one of you will explode. Arguing in this manner is usually counterproductive in that it becomes much harder to control your emotions and to reach a resolution. What you say to a girlfriend after an argument can determine how successful you will be in making up with her.
How Can I Stop Arguing With My Girlfriend?
By: Peter Harris | 26/07/2008
Any relationship between a man and a woman will involve arguing. It cannot be avoided. If the arguing becomes more and more frequent then you may find yourself asking the question "how can I stop arguing with my girlfriend?" Listed are some helpful tips that can help put a solution in perspective for you.
Free Dating Ideas for Singles - Singles Chat and Online Dating Tips
By: Mr Online Dating | 26/07/2008
There is an avalanche of online dating services now days. Singles have thousands of profiles to select from. Meeting singles now becomes a numbers game, perhaps a law of averages increasing our chances of finding love.
Get The Most Out Of Your Gay Online Dating Service
By: Jennifer King | 26/07/2008
Meet more gay singles online with these tips. Gain an advantage over your competition.
More from Aelicia Anderson
Not Getting Any? Here's Why Your Adult Dating Profile Isn’t Working
By: Aelicia Anderson | 31/03/2008 | Sexuality
Has it been weeks, even months, since your profile has received any attention? If you’re profile contains any of the elements listed below, perhaps it’s time for a face lift.
Romantic Outdoor Dating in Brisbane
By: Aelicia Anderson | 20/02/2008 | Dating
No need to be cooped up inside for dinner and a movie when there are an unlimited number of outdoor activities in Brisbane that make excellent romantic dates with someone special.
Dating: Sydney's Romantic Side
By: Aelicia Anderson | 20/02/2008 | Dating
Sydney is one of the most vibrant and lively cities in the world… it’s also packed with a ton of romantic things to do. Before you set out on your next day, check out our list of romantic date ideas.
Top Ten Great Dates in Melbourne
By: Aelicia Anderson | 20/02/2008 | Dating
Melbourne, Australia is stocked full of fantastic date ideas for couples. Here’s our list of some of the best options.
What to Look for in a Legitimate Online Dating Site
By: Aelicia Anderson | 31/01/2008 | Dating
Online dating has made it easy to find hot singles with just one click of the mouse. But how do you find a site that is safe?
Adult Personals - 3 Great Tips to Get yourself Noticed
By: Aelicia Anderson | 07/01/2008 | Dating
The thousands of exotic, erotic, and exciting adult personals pictures beg for you to create a hot profile picture that will get you noticed!
Adult Dating 101: Mastering the Online Booty Call
By: Aelicia Anderson | 29/12/2007 | Sexuality
With tantalizing words and tempting pictures, adult dating is a sexually exciting adventure - as long as you have the right online booty call skills!
Dating Sites - Getting in on the Secret Weapon of Chat Rooms
By: Aelicia Anderson | 16/12/2007 | Dating
Dating sites are vibrant communities, filled with hot and sassy singles, and the secret to getting noticed on these sites stems from your chat room behavior.
Relationships 
