Meeting new people is usually great fun. The element of the unknown; suspense and all that. We often look for someone new online because we either don't have the time to *get out there* or where we live seems just too donting; that (among a multitude of reasons!

Online dating gives people the capability to connect with others from the comfort of our own Laptops, but just because you might be looking from your living room, PLEASE don’t ever let your common sense or instincts wain when you make a decision to meet someone new face2face

These online dating tips are written to make your adventures into the world of online dating - first and foremost - SAFE - then fun, interesting and hopefully successful in the manner you wish.

Online Dating Tip #1

Don't EVER allow anyone to pressure you into revealing any detail about yourself before you are ready. The ol' "Allow me to introduce myself" is a common form of introduction. Polite, confident and maybe even the ice breaker to take you to the next phase of your communication.

Please -- think for a minute. When you introduce yourself to someone in a gym or a bar, do you say,

“Hi, I'm Angie and I live at ___________ and, my telephone number is ____________and, I work at __________ and my e-mail address is ______________" blaa blaa....

NO! Of course you don't (At least I sure HOPE NOT!) so Please don't forget that when introducing yourself in any online dating site that you use the same common sense you would F2F. - ALWAYS!

Online Dating Tip #2

Do your Best to be Honest about What you are looking for in a mate as well as the details you DO give about yourself. If you frankly let people know your intentions right up front; you start on the honest path. If you say you are 5' 9"; 129 lbs, blonde & blue eyed, trim and athletic - then BE THAT! If ever you meet up, they are going to find out anyway. Besides, if you are into playing those types of stupid games, give it up!

Online Dating Tip #3

Talking on the phone...

Have you ever been in a situation where you have spoken to someone on the phone and their voice creates an image of what they look like in your own mind? Well of course you have...we all do it. I think that if you meet that person: they never look anything like the picture of them you have created in your mind.

Ask to see a picture of the person. This way you may feel more comfortable with who you have contacted or who has contacted you. At least it is a step in that direction. A photo gives you the visual while you are on the phone and it helps put 2 and 2 together.

Online Dating Tip #4

If you do decide to meet your contact; do it in a mutually agreed upon public place with plenty of people around (preferably in daylight). Tell a friend or family member where you are going and leave them a contact number if you don't have a cell phone.

Use your own transportation and then when the date is over, leave on your own. If you happen to both agree to go to another location, still use your own ride. In the beginning stage this is always the safest thing to do. Act on the side of caution. ALWAYS! If your date is pressuring you - LEAVE. You should be feeling comfortable! Remember, the spot for your date is a mutual decision so anything being arranged you both must be happy with.

Online Dating Tip #5

Scam artists abound in this world. It’s a fact of life. Beware of scam artists. NEVER give out any of your banking information or credit card information. Beware of anyone asking you to give them money via ANY venue!!

Remember, scam artists will work a person for a month to a year to win their confidence and trust. So, please, I say again, NEVER send anyone any money no matter how sick somebody claims their mother is or how bad their cat needs surgery! ALWAYS use your common sense! If you get a strange type of request you are unsure of then ask a wise friend for advice.

Online Dating Tip #6

Beware of people who require a gift of any kind for a first time meeting - EVEN FLOWERS. Not sending or bringing a gift does not make you a cheapskate, it simply means you are being SMART.

Online Dating Tip #7

Common sense and good judgment get you through your life on a smooth road. Don’t let your dreams and/or desires; loneliness or desperation even ever override your common sense. If you are afraid you will; have a friend with you while on the phone and writing to your new person. Two heads are better than one, especially when your heart is going pitter-pat. Remember this -- If someone sounds too good to be true, they probably are. Never allow yourself to be forced or controlled into a situation where you are not comfortable. Life is to Enjoy to the fullest, but being safe and smart while you are doing this will never be regretted!

Online Dating Tip #8

If you find someone on a dating site that is promoting themselves in any type of *RUDE* manner, especially ANY that go against the rules of the particular site - Report Them. Dating sites don't want these type of people either! They generally try pretty hard to keep their sites *clean* but many eyes are better than an over-worked staff. Do Not hesitate to report people - they will Never know it is You who did it.

If you may feel someone is being abusive or harmful toward yourself or any other member - REPORT THEM IMMEDIATELY.

Online Dating Tip #9

There are SO many *types* of online dating sites that you should really look around quite a bit before you join one. Joining nearly always involves a fee. The fees seem to be fairly standard from my research running from around 22$ to 35$ per month.  I would Strongly advise that you join one which does NOT auto bill you!  Many good solid sites have a monthly fee which you can re-join IF you Choose to do so.  Auto-billing is (IMO) a bit of a scam and can be just another pain in the butt if you only wanted to *try it out*.

The types of sites run to every realm there is.  I don't think I need to go into Detail about this.  You know what you like! (wink wink - nudge nudge)  For example, What I am saying is if you are into Christian Living; DON'T join an S&M or bondage site! LOL!  You may think that is totally obvious but if you read the introductions to these online dating services thoroughly, you might be surprised what is allowed -- and it may very well be something you do Not wish to see!

Online Dating Tip #10

Now that I've listed the safety basics; I have one more piece of advice for you.  Don't be hasty! If you have waited this long; a few more days of waiting to thoroughly do your research will truly pay off in the long run.  You will know which online dating service is right for you when you see it!

Best of luck out there -- STAY SAFE -- and have fun!

Melanie

Please vote in this poll -- I am doing some more research and would REALLY appreciate all votes as well as all comments!  THANKS!!