Coming to a verdict - online dating UK

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You will find there is no shortage of advice on how to find a mate, but what you really need to know if you're searching for true love is how to size up your date during the first few meetings.

You've chatted online, tentatively spoken on the phone and arranged to meet. The first question is whether you're actually looking forward to your date.

Test 1: dying to meet or dreading the date?

If you're really dreading your date because you know it's not quite right, the best dating advice you can get is to make a polite phone call to cancel. It'll save you both a lot of hassle in the long run. Dont confuse nervousness or fear with logic though.

Test 2: love at first sight?

First of all, does he arrive on time? Don't let any date, no matter how attractive, leave you waiting for more than ten minutes. And if he arrives reeking of booze just walk away, there's only so much Dutch courage needed for a first date. And check out his walk and his posture - does he walk with confidence or slouch along apologetically?

Test 3: dress sense

Does his look appeal to you? No one can change their physical features but you can go a long way to making the most of what you've got. Does his dress sense match yours or does he look like he tucked his shirt into his underpants?

Test 4: manners

Is he polite? It's a first date - he should at least open the door for you and buy the first drink. Is he polite to the staff of your date venue (flirting with the waitress doesn't count as a positive here)? If you go for something to eat does he speak with his mouth full or eat with his mouth open?

Test 5: conversation tactics

Do you feel comfortable talking to him? Does he listen to what you have to say or hog the conversation with his own tales of self congratulation. Or worse still does he drone on about how terrible his ex was? Does he make eye contact and seem sincere? And above all does he have character or is he 'a character'?

Test 6: does he add up?

Does he look, sound and act like his online persona or is there a touch of Jekyll and Hyde in your experiences? Listen to his conversation and make sure it confirms things he's told you before. Check the ring finger on his left hand for a white band where his wedding ring may have been.

If you've got any doubts just walk away. There are a lot more dates out there.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Date Verdicts