Photographs not only show what a person looks like but also can give you a gut feeling about the type of person you are getting (online) involved with. If the person is reluctant to provide you with a photo(s) perhaps they have something to hide. Be aware of this fact.
Have a telephone conversation.
When you are ready to move things along a little more, choose a time to talk to one another on the phone. Remember though, safety is your number one concern. It’s a good idea to block your home phone or cell phone number when you call. If or when you feel really comfortable speaking with the person only then should you reveal your number and allow the other individual to phone you.
Arrange to meet in a VERY public place.
So you’ve chatted online for a while, spoken on the phone and everything is looking good so far? Good to hear. If you’re ready to meet, arrange a time and place but be smart about it. Don’t allow the other person to pick you up at home or work. Instead arrive in your own car and leave alone. Arrange to meet in a VERY public place such as a busy coffee shop downtown. There is more safety in numbers. And always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to return home. Cover the bases and get home safely.
Learn when to say goodbye.
Some relationships in the online world can translate into serious and lasting relationships in the offline world while others cannot. Relationships take work to succeed after all. If you feel that you’re in what is amounting to a dead end relationship, learn when to call it off. Rejection is no fun for anyone at any stage of the game but neither is getting in over your head when you know nothing good will come of it.
Exercise caution and common sense when you date, whether it is in the online or offline world. Wolves in sheep’s clothing are everywhere and learning how to recognize one should be high on your list of dating don’ts. Trust yourself but have fun with your dating experiences.