10 Online Dating Rules

It’s a new ball game out there for people dating. Everyone’s doing it online. Well, that may be an unfortunate choice of words, “doing it,” but there is some validity to the comment. Many people go on line not because they want to date, but because they’re looking for a hook up. Sex. Physical intimacy. Someone to keep the bed warm.

That said, understand that to get to sex, you first have to have a date, unless of course, you’re paying for the service. If you want to watch a poignant albeit hilarious take on this theme, tune in the HBO series, “Hung,” a new season of which has just started. The women on “Hung,” are either pimps or clients. One of the pimps calls herself a “happiness consultant.” The kind of happiness, it goes without saying, her women clients seldom find from on line dating.

Regardless of whether or not you’re looking for a quickie or a long time squeeze, there are some rules you should abide when you begin on line dating. These rules are designed to keep you safe, not sorry, and out of the police blotter.

Pick the guy who can write in plain English, not the guy who’s picture you most like. Men usually lie in their picture anyway. That picture is either old or it’s not him, unless you’re very, very lucky. You can’t fake writing though. What you read on the page: That’s him.

Text and talk before your first meet The guy may be a genius at profiling himself on a dating site. You won’t know if he’s a mensch or not until you talk to him.

Arrive to the date on your own. You want to have your own wheels (or cab) if you need to make a fast getaway.

Call a friend 15 minutes into the date to say where you are and who you’re with This not only gives you a chance to relate and process your first impressions to someone who matters, but is a security precaution. Just sayin’.

Dress up, but not too much. It’s nice to put your best foot (and face) forward, but unless your date is with an heir to Harry Winston, don’t reveal too soon you’ve got a lot of bling.

Ask him some questions about himself, including how long he’s been on line dating You want to find out if he’s a player or is serious about finding a long term connection. Also ask him about his last serious relationship and why they broke up.

Don’t tell him where you live Again, this is just a security precaution. You don’t have to lie. Just be politely evasive.

Bring cash to pay for your dinner or drink A lot of women expect to be taken out, and if he offers, that’s nice. But when you don’t pay, you’re a bit beholden. Going Dutch makes for a more level playing field.

See how he minds his manners It’s not just whether or not he pulls out your chair. How does he treat the server?

When you say goodnight, say goodnight Even if it was a really great first date, don’t hang around and linger. And definitely don’t let him get in your car until you really know him. Confined space, and all that. When you’re having fun, you don’t think about the danger. The internet is full of nice people, but it’s also full of criminals. Alas, sometimes it’s not obvious to know the difference.