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Guide To Online Dating In 2009

Remember back in the olden days when you thought that on line dating was just for sad losers with no social skills? When only geeks used the internet as their main method of socialising? When the only socialising that happened online was weirdos playing dungeons and dragons in their basements? When you had a good laugh at Auntie Mavis dreaming of meeting Mr Right on her free online dating site? Well, now the noughties have hit and social networking has revolutionised the way we think about the internet. Web 2.0 has changed the way we think about and use the internet, and most people under 30 do the bulk of their socialising online. On line dating is no different, and the proliferation of free online dating sites means you have nothing to lose - and a whole lot to gain. There is no definitive guide to online dating that will pave a trouble free path to your perfect match - but following a few simple tips when you get started on line dating will make the whole process easier and more efficien...because no one wants to endure a thousand horrible dates before meeting their dream partner.

Stay Safe

The most important thing to consider when you start on line dating is how you are going to ensure your safety. The notion that the free online dating sites are full of dangerous individuals is a myth - but, as in the rest of society, there certainly are some people best avoided. And of course, on line dating can certainly leave you wide open to risks if you do not take some simple steps. First of all, never give out personal details such as your home address. If you have an unusual surname, it might even be a wise idea to use an assumed name when you are online. Once you have met someone with potential, take a bit of time to let the relationship develop online before you rush out to meet them. Find out whether the two of you really are potentially compatible, and do not waste your time meeting everyone who seems interested.

When it's Time to Meet

If you really do think this man or woman is worth meeting, be sensible. If anyone, a male or female, suggests meeting at their home you should immediately begin to hear alarm bells ringing. Likewise, if they want to pick you up from your home, say no! This could be an innocent and chivalrous offer, but it could also be far more sinister.

Suggest a meeting place that you are familiar with and know will have a lot of people around. A favourite restaurant is a great idea, or a bar will allow a quicker getaway if you still have a few doubts. But if you do choose to meet in a bar always keep an eye on your drink (use the bathroom between drinks, not during) and be mindful of how much you have to drink. I'm sure it is not news to you that alcohol can cloud your judgement! Even if your date seems attractive, sincere, and a genuinely nice individual - never agree to go home with them! This applies to the first few dates, not just the first one. Meeting someone on a free online dating site is quite different to hooking up with a friend's friend or someone you met through work - you have only your own judgement to rely on, and if you find someone attractive it can be easy for them to pull the wool over your eyes.

Meet Up With a Group

A great way to get a better sense of someone is to meet their friends. After you have met once or twice, why not suggest a group outing involving a couple of your friends and a couple of theirs. You will get to see how your new guy or girl behaves around their friends, and of course, your friends will get to check them out. Make sure you do end up with a good gender split, or the group might feel awkward. And try to include a few single friends, rather than all couples.

When Can You Relax?

When you have met someone on line dating, you may have to take it a little slower than you normally would. The three dates rule is out the window, as it would be risky to go home with someone after such a short time period. This applies even if all your instincts tell you can trust them. There is no hard and fast rule about when you can let your guard down, but it is not a good idea to before making few mutual acquaintances. When do feel ready, perhaps suggest going home to your place not theirs and arrange for someone else to be home. Hopefully this guide to online dating has allayed any qualms you have about on line dating, and has given you some tips to get out there and start meeting people online.