A Guide to Online Dating Etiquette

In today's fast-paced and technology-based world, socializing is more reliant on things that were not even heard of 10 years ago. According to some statistics, last year 17% of those who met on a dating site went on to be married. One in five people has dated someone they met online.

It is essential to make a terrific first impression, and just as necessary to follow some online dating etiquette.

Honesty is the Best Policy

When chatting to someone online, always must keep in mind that one day an in-person meeting might happen. What is the purpose of not being totally honest with that thought in mind? Dishonesty in email and chat will come back to haunt at the first meeting.

Are Pictures Really Necessary?

This is something that must be assumed the person on the other end of the keyboard is eventually going to ask for, so have one ready, a recent picture preferably. There is one important thing to note here. In the world of men and women, men are much more visual creatures. Though there are exceptions to any rule, most men put a lot of emphasis on the visual aspect. Put up your best picture and always make sure to smile.

The First Email

This email will normally set the tone of the whole process. With that in mind, make sure to ask as questions, as well as answer some. Most people are of the opinion that if someone is interested, than they will ask questions to continue to get better acquainted. Sending an email that is bragging and boastful is just not appropriate, and it reeks of desperation and insecurity. Also, spell-check any email sent to anyone, regardless of interest or not.

Answering All Emails

Answering all email is not a requirement, but it tells something about the person if they choose to ignore email from those they are not interested in. Be courteous and tactful in any email response.

Time to Meet

Do not push it, there is plenty of time. Do not add pressure to the situation by demanding a meeting after the first email or chat conversation. This is a dangerous world and a lot of people are safety conscious. Online dating has some unique issues that people are still trying to navigate. Respecting a person's choice to hold off a face-to-face meeting for a while goes a long way in someone's eyes and heart.