Dating and the Internet

The Internet has changed the face of dating – there is no doubt about that regardless of whom you ask! Some things haven’t changed, though. These include the importance of meeting someone you’re truly compatible with, the interest in getting to know the person, and the magical spark generated by a first kiss (or 50th kiss!) with someone you truly connect with. While the Internet has vastly expanded the dating pool, and given us more chances than ever to court that special someone, there are a few standard rules that apply when you meet someone on the Internet. **When you meet someone in person, you generally have a context for them: other people they might know, where they work, or some other connection that brought the two of you together. Often, you don’t have this luxury when meeting someone online. It’s never bad to have context or background. While we’re not suggesting you virtually stalk someone, it is common practice these days to use a potential love’s name and email address to find out more about them. Use a search engine like Google, or see if they have a Facebook account. In short, see if who they’re presenting themselves as matches up. The type of pictures and friends someone has online – or the lack thereof – can say a lot about them. **When you do meet, always make sure you tell at least two close friends where you’re going, who you’re going with, and what time to expect a check-in call or text from you. Always meet someone in a public place, and (even when you’re tempted) it’s best to avoid being alone with them on that first date. Take the extra week or so and truly get to know them in public, and make sure they’re exactly who they promised to be!