One of the great things about online dating is that you already know quite a bit about each other before you have your first offline date. This makes it possible for you to arrange a surprise date that is destined to be a success. You can for instance call the restaurant in advance and arrange for an evening of chocolate tasting, because you already know that she is not allergic to chocolate; you can surprise her with tickets to a hatchet movie because you already know that she is into horror films and so on. This will make your first date feel more personal and relaxed.

Be clear about when and where to meet each other. Do not let leave things hanging with an “Okay, call me when you get off from work.” Actually showing up on time at the designated spot is naturally also of imperative importance. Not being on time will tell you date that he or she is not that important to you, or that you are an inconsiderate, sloppy person who cannot arrive on time. If your date is late, do not act out or turn passive-aggressive. Be pleasant and listen to their explanation.

 If you are a little nervous and concerned about topics of conversation, sit back and take reassurance from the fact that you already know things about this person. This is what makes online dating so great! Trying to pose as a lover of Indian food even though you are allergic to spices is naturally not a good idea, but if you know that your date has travelled to India several time, why not make the effort and catch up on current Indian events or read an article about some aspect of Indian culture or wildlife? “By the way, I just read an article about…” is a great conversation starter.

 Some online daters become virtually obsessed with the physical appearance of their date once they get a chance to meet him or her offline. Don’t be one of them! Paying a few compliments is great, but do not let the entire conversation revolve around topics such as “Wow, really look much better than in your picture”. Let your date feel that you are still interested in him or her as a person, not as a piece of meat.

If your date compliments you, do not start putting yourself down. Just smile and say thank you. You do not have to return the compliment immediately; sometimes it is better to save it for a later moment when it comes as more of a surprise. “You really have a beautiful laugh” sounds more genuine if you say it when she is laughing, rather than blurting it when she compliments you for something.