Online Dating: Transitioning from Online to Face-to-Face

Perhaps you have been communicating with someone online for awhile and are not sure how to make the switch. You really want to meet the person and the person wants to meet you but you are not sure if you are ready.

There is somewhat of a good reason for your fears. It is an obvious fact that you could meet a person and that person may not be who you think he or she is.

Transitioning Tips

If you have not already done so, perhaps using a webcam can assure you that a person really is who he or she says she is. Cheap cameras that can be used for this purpose can be found at most major discount department stores.

You might also want to share photos back and forth as you feel comfortable enough to trust the person. This will help either of you get a feel for each other’s surroundings before even having been there.

Furthermore, the more you communicate online the better chance you will have of making a strong connection in person. It might in some ways even be easier than if you have met in person for the first time and had never talked much beforehand.

When you are feeling comfortable enough it will then be time to schedule that first “real” date. This process involves a variety of safety procedures.

Safety Tips

Whether you have been in an online relationship for several months or you just started getting to know the person these safety tips are very important to know. They involve protecting your self in case your date turns out to not be who he or she says they are.

The number one way to protect your self while anticipating meeting for the first time is to meet in a public place. Also, when you do meet avoid secluded locations such as a campground or rural area or park.

Perhaps a mall or restaurant located near the centre of the city might be the best way to arrange a meeting. If you need to stay overnight somewhere to meet that person it is advised that you not share a room with him or her for this time at least.

Other than that, you will know after you meet a person for the first time how comfortable you will be with meeting again. It may be advisable to be hesitant to give out your personal address for at least a few meetings into seeing the person face to face.

However, you can use your instincts, too. If a person makes you feel totally comfortable and is not excessively charming you might feel safe. However, watch out for any signs of disrespect in the person.

Additional Advice

If possible, make sure you are not late for the date. If you are running late you could call the person to let that person know. Otherwise, that person will assume you just left him or her hanging. Furthermore, while on the date show genuine interest in the person and keep the conversation light.