Before meeting your online date…

The world of online dating is exciting. You can meet someone virtually from any corner of the world and if things go well, you can take this online conversation to a real-life meeting as well. But let’s be pragmatic—things might not always be as rosy as they seem online and there is no guarantee that your online date is going to be a safe and fun affair. Before you move ahead with your plans to meet your virtual friend for the very first time, here are a few things you should consider doing.

Stalk the guy online

Yes, you read it right. Stalking the person on social media can reap countless benefits. First, you can always check that you are chatting with the same person as you have seen in the photographs that he has shared. You can testify the information including his workplace, the city he lives in or the friends he keeps talking about. Then, if the privacy settings allow, you can also check his recent posts and updates to understand his point of view about things. For instance, is he politically inclined towards a party? Is he an animal lover? Or, does he like to head out for a party every second day or prefers to stay at home?

Inform a friend

Safety comes first. No matter for how long you have been chatting with this virtual friend, it is always a good idea to inform a few of your friends before heading out for a date. Share the location of the place you are going with him, by what time you will be back and keep them updated if there is any change of plan. Do we really need to explain why? 

Choose the right place

When going on your first date, it is the wisest to choose a public place that you have been to before. Rather than going to his place, his friend’s apartment or any far-away café you have never heard about, stick to a place that is easily accessible by public transport and is crowded at the time of your visit. 

Set the right expectation level

It is really important to be yourself and set the right expectation level with your online friend. Let him know what you are looking for from this relationship (casual dating, hook up, something serious or just friendship), and be clear about your intentions. Ask him about what he expects from this online affair. Clarity on this topic will help to keep things going in the right direction.

Have an escape plan

What if he turns out to be a creep or you don’t feel safe in his company? Having an escape plan ready is going to be your armour if the situation turns out to be terrible. Either keep an excuse (that sounds realistic) ready in your mind so that you can get up and leave the place whenever you feel like or have a friend on standby who can come to pick you up if the situation demands. Also, to be on the safer side, keep the numbers of your closest friends on speed dial and carry a pepper spray with you.