Rules and Guidelines for Online Dating

There is much controversy today as to whether online dating is safe or not. You hear a lot of horror stories out there but some of them leave the listener wondering whether they could have been prevented from the moment online contact was made. By following some simple rules, online dating can be a fun and exciting experience, and you can meet some interesting and wonderful people out there. You might not always meet Mr. or Mrs. Right, but you might just make a new friend.

Here are some rules and guidelines to follow in the world of online dating:

1. If they sound too good to be true, they probably are. Although there is no perfect person, there is more than one person for everyone.

2. Try to find out as much as possible about the prospective date as you can. Ask a lot of questions. If the prospect will not answer your questions or tries to change the subject, then this is someone you probably should avoid meeting or at least spend some time chatting with online before a meeting is arranged.

3. Be honest about what you are looking for in a mate and don't be afraid to say no if they are someone you are not interested in meeting.

4. Don't give out too many specifics until you have met the person and are sure you want to see them again. Never give out addresses or phone numbers until you are sure you can trust them with that information.

5. When you do agree to a meeting; try a short, casual date first; such as, a coffee date or a lunch date. This will give you a chance to meet and get some idea of their personality. It will also give you a chance to ask a few more questions and actually see their facial expressions and reactions as they answer. If you feel comfortable and get good feelings about them, then arrange another meeting.

6. Arrange to meet in a well-lit, public place where there are other people around. Don't invite them to your home or go to theirs until you feel comfortable doing so. If there is any question in your mind at all, it is better to be safe than sorry.

There are always precautions to be taken whether you meet online or elsewhere. You never actually know the real person until you have spent some real time with them, but trust your instincts; if you are getting any bad vibes or feelings at all, then this one is better left alone.

I know you may now be experiencing some real doubts about the online dating scene. These guidelines are not meant to frighten. You can still have a lot of fun, but you always want to stay safe. Use your head; and your heart will thank you.

Susanna Shipp