Internet Dating Tips on Having Successful Blind Dates

Just a few years ago, Internet dating appeared to have been a heavenly gift from the gods of matchmaking.  Where else could a single woman have access to millions of eligible bachelors?  Unfortunately, a lot of men currently misrepresent themselves when Internet dating.  That’s why women are starting to get burned out of the online mating game.
As a result, more women are now sticking to the adage “everything old is new again” and are opting to being set up.  Although blind dates can produce good results, there is also potential for failure.  What happens is friends or family will set up two people just because they are both young and single, without really considering compatibility.  So, to have a successful matchup when going on a blind date, follow these tips.

• Be Clear and Specific on Your Criteria

Matchmakers should be guided when they are trying to think of someone you might like.  You have to be detailed and precise with what you’re looking for and what you’re not.  If you’re having difficulty determining the specifics, think about the traits you’ve loved with your exes.  You can even include the admirable qualities of your friends’ boyfriends.

• Select the Right Matchmaker

You have to know that blind dating is a numbers game.  Having more options means higher chances of landing a great guy, so you have to put the word out that you’re single, available and looking.  Many women fear that if they asked to be set up, they might come across as desperate.  This, however, is far from the truth.  By asking to be introduced, you’re sending the message that you want to meet men smartly, and not just settle for any random guy you come across in a bar.
This is where it can get a bit tricky:  You want to network but you still want to be selective on who’s setting you up.  Obviously, your close group of friends knows your situation, so it’s unlikely you’ll meet somebody new through them.  What you need to do is cast a wider net, although still be selective.

• Get the Dirt on the Man

Once everything is set up, potential partners should start hitting you up.  Just remember that you’re not required to go out with every available prospect that comes along, so screen out guys who are not qualified.  Try to find out if he is looking to be in a relationship or just playing the field.  Another way is through knowing what he does during his down time, which can reveal a lot about his personality and lifestyle.

A Survival Guide on Meeting Your Adult Dating Partner’s Family for the First Time

Now that the holiday season is upon us, a lot of you guys will be meeting your adult dating partner’s family for the first time. From huge gatherings to casual dinners with the immediate family, here are a few essential tips on how to establish a good first impression, regardless of the situation.

• Go for a classic style

It may be perfectly acceptable to have Thanksgiving dinner in your folks’ place prancing around in sweats, but no father wants to think his darling daughter is adult dating a bum. Go for a classic style, which means no sweats and graphic t-shirts. Denims and a sports jacket work everywhere. Always be clean-shaven from the neck up even if she likes the scruff, and spray on cologne so you can smell good when giving out warm hugs.

• Don’t show up empty handed

My mom always told me, “Never show up at a dinner party empty handed—especially during the holidays. So, for her mom, try giving a special dish or dessert, and have a nice story behind it. It may be an old family recipe handed down from generations, or something that came from this nice little Italian pastry shop you just discovered.

• Jump on the campaign trail

Of course, you know that your job here is let the whole family think you’re a good guy. In this regard, remember to shake hands, kiss those babies and the grannies. Always keep in mind that moms like a sweetheart and dads approve of a gentleman. Make sure you be both.

• Have something to say

This is not the right time to be shy or just sit in one corner. Join in on conversations and have your own stories to add. Just leave out the story about your frat brother, Skid Mark, who could drown a can of beer then immediately smash the empty can on his forehead.

• Always offer to lend a hand

Women’s work: These are the two words that shall not, under any circumstances, be uttered while you’re there. Early on, ask if you can help around, especially in the kitchen. When dinner is done, offer to help wash and dry the dishes and take out the trash. It is more likely for them to say no, in which case you can move on to the living room to mingle with the dad and uncles.