10 Dos & Don'ts Before Meeting Mr. Online In Person

Welcome to Online Dating Bootcamp: Day 6! Today is all about the messages, texts, phone calls and instant messages you exchange with your match before your first date, featuring 10 tips from YourTango Expert Janet Ong. (Wanna brush up on Bootcamp Days 1-5? Start here.)

So, you've found a guy online who has potential and you've agreed to go out with him. Great! Pressure's off until you meet in person, right? Wrong! Follow these rules to make sure you don't do or say the wrong thing before your first date:

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1. DO be yourself. Communicating authentically is the only way you'll get to know each other. Letting your guard down helps him open up and feel comfortable talking, e-mailing and texting with you. Being yourself is attractive and shows that you're comfortable in your own skin.

2. DO keep an open mind. When the activity for your date is agreed upon, talking him into doing something else will make you seem unreceptive. Suggestions are okay, but pushing for what you want will likely turn him off. If he suggests something you've never done before, try it! You might like it.

3. DO keep things light. Life is challenging, so make dating fun. Be a breath of fresh air. Be lighthearted and stay away from heavy, serious topics. Why Your Online Dating Profile Doesn't Work

4. DO be interesting. Living your life fully and having your own interests makes you a more dimensional person. He'll be intrigued by you. Your communication will have more depth, leaving him wanting to know more about you.

5. DO listen carefully. During your communications, listen and remember what he shares with you. This shows him that you're interested in him rather than just looking for a free meal. When you acknowledge the things he's shared during your conversations, he'll feel heard and appreciate you for paying attention.

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6. DON'T reveal too much. It's never a good idea to talk about your ex, why you've been single for nine years or your medical problems. Stay away from subjects that are unflattering, make you appear desperate, show you in a negative light or are controversial. There will be plenty of time after your first date to share more personal information.

More online dating advice from YourTango Experts:

• YourTango Experts Presents ... Online Dating Bootcamp!
• Is Online Dating Really Worthwhile?
• Which Online Dating Site Is Right For You?