RocknRollDating Etiquette Guidelines
Basic etiquette is important when searching for potential matches on dating websites: Its not that different from the real world (read: online same as offline). We want RocknRollDating to be a place where people treat each other with basic courtesy and consideration, so please be respectful, polite and most of all, friendly. If you're looking for a date, a long-term relationship, marriage, or a little more than a concert buddy, try to be cool in the same way that youd want someone to be with you.
Rules to abide by (Good Monkey):
- Be honest in your profile, and post current photos. Sure, you can post a photo from ten years ago when you were a younger version of yourself, but if you end up going on a date with someone that you met on RocknRollDating, and you are not the same person as on the site, youve just started off on the wrong foot. You should represent yourself honestly for the best shot at good results moving forward.
- Personalize your messages to the people you find interesting copy and paste will more often than not - look like just that, and besides are you looking for quantity or quality? Take the time to tailor your note specifically to the person youre writing to.
- Reply to those whove taken the time to contact you. If you're not interested, fine just say as much. Be polite though: Some people are sensitive, and might be taking a big leap looking for love on the Internet its good to be honest and encouraging.
- Its always good to ask questions. It shows that you are not completely self-absorbed, and (again just like the real world) is a good way to get to know the person on the other end.
- Cant say it enough: Be polite. Remember, there is a person sitting on the other end and besides, wouldnt you rather put good energy into the universe? Even if you dont believe in the concept of Karma
- Humor is a good thing; particularly if youre funny in real life, however some things can be misconstrued, so dont be too over-the-top.
- Dont hesitate to ask someone out once you get the feeling that you're both into each other trust your gut, just like you would in person. This applies to men and women alike. Online dating does not necessarily follow traditional patterns of dating, so its ok for women to be the one doing the asking as well. If youre feeling it, go for it.
- When going out with someone you meet through RocknRollDating, start with a short date in a public place. That way, if your feelings differ, you have an easy out. If things are going great, you can extend it or make plans to get together again.
- Send a follow-up email after an in-person date, whether it's to say thanks, but no thanks, or to let them know how much fun you had.
- If someone else is direct with you and lets you know that theyre not into you, take it in stride. You should not take things too personally. Instead, try to appreciate their honesty, and continue your search.
- Play the field. Just as long as you're being honest and having fun, it's okay to keep contacting as many people as you like until you find someone you're seriously interested in. After all, meeting new people is what dating is all about, right?
- When you meet someone and feel ready to move to the next level, LET THEM KNOW. They might still be playing the field, and have no idea that you are thinking of something more serious. Communication is king.
- Have fun.
Things to avoid (Bad Monkey):
- Dont lie. Enough said.
- Dont mislead. While perhaps a little different from a straight-up lie, try to avoid letting people think something about you thats not true. If pretty much feels the same as a lie.
- Privacy is of absolute importance. You can ask for personal information and ask personal questions after you have established some kind of rapport and trust (and are fairly certain that its mutual), but its considered poor form to move into that territory too early.
- Dont say anything in an email that you wouldn't say to someone's face.
- Dont say anything in an email that you might later regret (The same goes for photos you post).
- Best not to email someone's ear off. In other words, don't tell your whole life story in a short-form novel. Leave something for when you get together in person. Whats your hurry?
- Unless you know with absolute certainty, theres no need to write people off right away. It might take a few messages back-and-forth to get a sense of what someone is all about.
- Dont be aggressive. If a RocknRollDating member says they don't want to communicate with you, need more time before opening up, or are not ready to meet in person, they're not playing hard to get. Get it? STOP.
- Dont string anyone along just because you don't know how to say "no," or because you like the ego boost. Remember: were all dealing with people with feelings (just like you).