Dating for Dummies: The Definitive Guide to Online Dating

Anthony Faccenda

Etiquette, it’s what distinguishes human beings from the beasts. Whether you’re dealing with an important business meeting, a social event or a wedding, proper etiquette can ensure that you leave a positive first impression and earn the respect of your peers.

Although guidelines for suitable dinner and bathroom etiquette have existed for ages, there is one type of social situation (or virtual) that could merit an entire class in manners and etiquette: Online dating.

Online dating and etiquette are not mutually exclusive

So is there an online dating etiquette equivalent to “don’t chew with your mouth open”? Yes, there is. And knowing the dos and don’t of online dating could mean the difference between finding that special someone and ending up wondering, “Why didn’t he or she respond to me?“

So what's the game plant? You ask the questions and I’ll tell you what works and what you ought to avoid. Things like: What should and shouldn't you include in your profile? Are pay sites worth it or can you find a suitable match on a free site? What should you say in an introductory message? How long should you talk to someone before asking him or her to meet up? Are your profile pictures sending the appropriate vibe to prospective matches?

In addition to navigating the virtual aspect of online dating, I’ll also explain what you should keep in mind once you're ready to go on that first date—everything from suitable first date locations to text messaging etiquette post-first date.

Experience is simply the name we give to our mistakes

So what makes me qualified to explain the proper protocol of online dating? As a recently retired eight-year veteran of online dating, I’ve made so many embarrassing blunders, too many to mention, that I know what works and what doesn’t. Also, I’m in a successful relationship with someone whom I met online, which should count for something. Not to mention, I have helped numerous single friends succeed at online dating.

With this in mind, I’d like to field your questions to help provide you with the necessary tools to find what you’re looking for. So ask away and don’t be afraid to get personal. I’m an open book when it comes to discussing my experience.

Simply send an email to [email protected] and I’ll answer your inquiry in the following week’s article.

---

More WBOB Reads

• URI Theatre Holding Open Auditions for Spring Productions
  
• Binge Watch Alert: 5 Great Shows Coming to Netflix in February
• Momo Con: The Largest Gaming Convention Expands 
  
• Providence’s Only AAA Four-Diamond Award Winning Restaurant Welcomes Celebrated Chefs