Online Dating Guidelines
Do's and Don'ts of Online Dating

Remain Anonymous at first.

Just like you do in the real world of dating, give it some time. Ask as many questions as you can to get a really good idea of who you are speaking with. In the beginning, never give out any personal information such as your last name, phone number, address or email address. If the dating site has an in-house email such as Mingle Mail from BBW Personals Plus, use it or open up a free email account at Hotmail, Yahoo! or one of the other free internet providers.

Be cautious and follow your instincts.

As the old saying goes, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." Follow your instincts. If the person starts getting pushy or exhibits inappropriate behaior, end the conversation. You'll know if something just doesn't feel right. Love takes time, so take it slow and if it's supposed to happen, it'll happen.

Get a Photo

This may sound like a no-brainer, but you should definitely ask for a photo. Why? Because if the person refuses to send you a photo, it probably means that the photo they had on the site was someone else or there's a really good reason they don't want you to see them. By asking the right questions, you'll know what the person should look like, so if the picture is way off, you know they were lying. And, that's not the way to start off a relationship, right?

When it's time to call, use a Pay Phone

This is one of the most important steps. When you feel that it's time to speak, ask for their number and call from a pay phone. This way, you can't be tracked down by your phone number. After speaking, you'll know if it's safe to move forward.

Take your time and meet when YOU are ready

Don't let your excitement over a new person cloud your judgement. One of the beauties of online dating is you can find out everything you need to know before actually meeting. Meet on your terms and when you are ready! If you are being pressured to meet, then back away immediately.

Watch for these behaviors:

• Pressures you to meet or do something you don't want to do.
• Refusal to speak about family or friends
• Abusive or frustrated easily over the phone
• Doesn't look the same in person

Never go alone! Take a friend with you at first. If they are uncomfortable with your friend around, then you should immediately break off the relationship. Make sure to leave your date's name, phone number and email address with someone you trust just in case. Lastly, make the first date quick. Meet for coffee or lunch in an open place with a lot of people around. If the date goes well, you'll have plenty of time to waste the hours away then.

How to get there?

If you must travel to meet the person, take care of your own transportation. Never allow them to come pick you up! If in another city, only meet in an appropriate place and make sure your family and friends know where you are and how to contact you. Finally, always take your cell phone.

It's not going well...

Just leave! You're under no obligation to stay, and if it's not going the way you thought, just leave. The person's feelings might be hurt, but it's better than you getting physically hurt.

Good Luck and Happy Dating!