Sure, online dating enables you to interact at the click of a mouse. But that doesn’t necessarily mean dinner and drinks is a sure thing. He or she may like what your profile has to offer, but first impressions only last so long. Make an even bigger impression by following these messaging guidelines…
- DO be honest and up front about your expectations.
- DO use proper grammar. Messaging “Woow u r hawt!” is not attractive. Knowing the difference between “your” and “you’re” is.
- DO write in letter format. It shows effort.
- DO reply politely, even if you’re not interested.
- DO introduce yourself before asking for their real name.
- DO integrate their profile information into your message. It shows genuine interest.
- DO ask engaging questions.
- DO share personal information after you have built a rapport with your date.
- DO limit the use of emoticons. You’re not in middle school anymore.
- DO treat everyone with respect, even if they don’t agree with you.
- DON’T just wink without messaging.
- DON’T explicitly ask for sex. They are not escorts.
- DON’T send the same message to multiple people. They can tell.
- DON’T start your message with a pick-up line.
- DON’T message or reply with one or two words (i.e. Hi There, Hey Sexy, Wanna talk?).
- DON’T immediately ask for “pics,” money, or their phone number. Once a mutual trust is established, these topics are fair game.
- DON’T be pretentious or rude, even if you are the benefactor.
- DON’T curse or swear.
- DON’T use nicknames/pet names without knowing the person.
- DON’T send multiple messages in succession. It comes off as desperate and sometimes creepy.
