In online dating, have you ever thought of the questions as below? Who should message first? How long do you message each other for? When do you go on a date? Where do you meet? Should you date more than one person? With online dating comes etiquette that all online daters should know about. Here are the most important ones to know.
It's fine to make the first move
In online dating, anything goes in terms of making the first move. I think this depends on the dating site/app you're using. Dating apps like Bumble require the woman to make a move first where as other sites will suggest matches for you. It's perfectly fine for you to make the first move but it’s polite to follow through. And so if you've sent someone a nudge or a like' or a message, be sure to reply in a timely manner when they do.
Be timely with your replies
Dating and relationships are all about communication. When someone messages you, it’s always polite to reply within 24-48 hours, especially when you're living in an area with 24 access to wifi, there isn’t really an excuse not to reply. Replying in a timely always ensures you keep the momentum of a potential relationship going.
Don't ghost people
I think it’s realistic to expect that not every man you come across online will be a match for you. If you've had a few messages exchanged between you and a guy and you find you’re not all that interested in taking it further, it’s polite let him know. It doesn’t have to be a comprehensive explanation. Just a simple, “you seem like a really nice man but I’m looking for [insert what you're looking for]. I hope you find what you're looking for".
Take it offline
If you've been exchanging messages with someone for 3+ days, suggest to take things offline to see if you two will connect the same way you do online. it is allways a good idea to meet someone in a public place where there are lots of people. This helps to keep you safe from potential predators. You are safe if you make sure that your date dose not know your home location. Don’t lead a man into thinking you are ready for a sexual relationship and take it slowly and respectfully.
Tip: Avoid meeting your date at the cinema or theater where you won't get to talk to your date. You should always choose somewhere where you are able to hear each other, to get to know each other better. Avoid giving the impression that this first date is anything other than it is. It is simply a chance to get to know each other better. If you are invited to his home, it’s best that you don't do this in the early stages of a relationship (mainly for safety reasons).
Be courteous and honest
Whether you're meeting men online or offline, it never hurts to be honest and courteous. The general rule in moddern dating is that a relationship isn't exclusive until both parties have agreed to enter a relationship. If you’ve been seeing a man for a while and you want to see him exclusively, initiate the “what are we talk” when you both are relaxed and enjoying each other’s company.
Offer to pay for a date
In a time where many women have their own careers, it’s common courtesy to offer to pick up the tab once in a while. Who pays for the bill continues to be an ongoing debate but my opinion is - whoever initiats the date should pick up the bill, or at least offer.
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