Online Dating Etiquette Tips

Online dating can be frustrating as well as exciting. Not all of your dates are going to be great. In fact, some may be awful, but these are still good learning experiences and great stories to tell. The most important thing to remember when online dating is to approach it with a sense of fun and light-heartedness.

Because there can be a lot of misunderstandings when you're online dating, I've listed some guidelines for how to create better results and avoid some common mistakes. Remember, your online matches don't know you, so it's important to portray yourself as accurately as possible.

Grammar and spelling. When you create a profile, think of it as a resume. Use complete sentences, spell correctly, and use full words instead of acronyms like LOL. You will look more polished and attractive to potential dates. They will also take you more seriously.

Don't mass email. Even if you have multiple people you'd like to date, don't send them all the same email. Be specific. Read each profile and send separate emails asking questions about their interests, hobbies, the latest place they visited, etc. This goes a long way in attracting a date.

Don't email or call too much before meeting. Cut to the chase so you're not building up unrealistic expectations about your date. Talking briefly on the phone before your first meet-up is fine, but limit your conversations. If you decide you're not attracted when you meet in person, it's easier to go your separate ways.

Don't take down your online profile after the first few dates. Sure, you may feel that you've found the love of your life, but don't remove your profile or expect him to remove his right away. Take your time and date other people. If you want to become exclusive, then have a conversation with him about it. Don't communicate by updating your Facebook status or taking down your profile. Successful relationships come from good communication.