Log on For Love: Successful Online Dating

Online dating is wildly popular, and it's really no wonder. This can be an easy and convenient way to meet new people who share your goals and interests. There are risks, however, and precautions must be taken when dealing with people you don't know. Certain individuals can and will corrupt and misuse online dating services.

Before jumping into the Internet dating pool, consider the following points:
Take it Slow. Move forward with caution. Be on the lookout for odd or inconsistent behavior. If it doesn't feel right, DON'T do it.

Keep it Personal. Do not share your personal data with anyone you don't know and completely trust. This type of data includes your personal email or web address, your home address, phone numbers, place of business and anything else that will enable a shady user to identify you in the "real" world. Guarding your anonymity is the only way to protect your safety and security.

Be Sensible. Use common sense at every stage of the online dating game. From the minute you post your profile, to the time you decide whether to meet a new friend in person, always use your head. Every potential date must earn your trust with honest and honorable behavior.

Take a Picture. There is nothing wrong with asking for a photograph of your potential date. By having a picture, you may be able to better judge their personality. If the photo gives you a gut feeling, either positively or negatively, you'll be free to act accordingly.

Make the Call. After you've established a certain rapport or intimacy with your online friend, you may decide to take the relationship to the next level. But before making plans to meet in person, be sure to get together a few times over the telephone. Having a phone conversation keeps you secure and anonymous, but reveals more clues about the person's social and communication skills.

Meet in Public. Regardless of the degree of online intimacy, you are never obligated to meet anyone in person. If you do decide to meet, however, be sure to arrange your date at a mutually convenient and very public place. Never give your home address, or go to his or her home to meet. Insist on a public venue where you will feel secure. As an added precaution, always tell a trusted friend where you are going and, if possible, leave your date's name and telephone number with that friend.

Travel with Care. If your date wants to meet out of town, make your own travel and hotel arrangements. Do not tell your date where you're staying, and don't let him or her make the arrangements for you.

Have an Escape Plan. Never do anything you feel unsure about. Know the difference between a few nervous butterflies, and your instincts telling you "no way". If you are in any way afraid of your date, safely diffuse the situation and leave as soon as possible. Your safety is always much more important than one person's opinion of you.

Warning Signs. Once you've met, be on the lookout for any displays of intense frustration, anger, controlling behaviors or attempts to find out your personal information. If your date shows hints or signs of unacceptable behavior, end the communication and find a new online friend.

Be watchful of the following signs that could spell danger:
* Will not introduce you to friends, family members or professional associates.
* Acts elusive or won't provide clear answers to your direct questions.
* Provides inconsistent information about personal details like appearance, age, marital status, interests or profession.
* Will not call you or accept your phone calls, even after you've established an ongoing online intimacy.
* Appears in person to be altogether different from his or her online personality.
Online dating is a fun and convenient way to meet new people. Largely, the women and men using Internet dating services are kind, interesting and honest people like you, wanting to meet someone with similar interests. Be cautious as you explore the world of online dating, and your experience should be fun and rewarding.

About the Author
Contributor Murielle Freegard writes for several web sites, on home decor and home garden tips themes.