Online Dating Etiquette

Ask anyone who is using an online dating site what the biggest advantage of these services is and they will in all probability tell you it is the convenience of being able to meet the person you want to, when you want to, from the comfort of one’s home. You do not have to worry about your dress or your shoes – you can meet with the person dressed in your house robe.
However, this does not mean that there is no etiquette being followed on online dating sites. In fact, as your words will reveal the most about you, you have to be very careful not just about what you type, but also about what message they might convey. Here are some tips on online dating etiquette that will help you win relationships.

* To begin with, you have to ensure that you are absolutely honest while writing up your profile. You may feel that you have nothing much to talk about and may feel tempted to write in a few white lies and perhaps include a photo of a much fitter, thinner you, taken ten years back. All these lies will eventually be found out and are certainly not going to help you find a serious relationship. You could choose to speak more about your achievements and your abilities as also about what your likes and dislikes are. Remember, being honest is not just about online dating etiquette it is common courtesy.
* The best way to contact someone the first time is with an email. This does not demand an instant reply and the person receiving your email can take time to look up your profile, do some research and then decide if he or she is going to respond. If the person has already seen your profile, you could highlight some of the more positive aspects of it when you do write.
* Having sent a message, do not be too pushy and send more emails or instant messages. You may not only appear desperate or needy, the person may also start feeling uncomfortable and decide not to respond to you at all. Be patient and give the person some time and space.
* Once you have established contact, you may exchange emails to begin with. Next, you might want to have a conversation in one of the chat rooms. Treat this like a casual meeting between two friends and let the conversation flow smoothly. Do not start asking too many personal questions at once as you might make the person uncomfortable. Let it be a process of natural give and take where you give some information and then take in some.
* No matter how many interesting life stories you have and would like to share them with your new friend, it is also very important that you learn to listen. By listening, you not only learn more about the other person but you also show that you care and that you are paying attention to what they are saying.