The Dos and Don’ts of Dating and Facebook

As if dating isn't difficult enough, throw social media into the mix and it gets even worse. Here are a few dos and don'ts of dating in the Facebook world.

Don't Friend on the First Date

A new survey says that about half of us send a Facebook friend request either before the first date, or right after the first date. This is not a good idea, especially if it's before the first date. What if he's a crazy stalker guy who friends all of your friends and starts creeping on your profile? Wait until the third or fourth date before sending him a friend request. That way you've gotten to know each other a little better and have built up a little bit of trust. You can also set the parameters of what they see, so you don't have to give away the farm by accepting their request.

Do Think Twice

And this should just be a rule of life, but it's important to think twice about what you post. Everything you post should be considered public knowledge. How are you going to come across in your status updates? Are you going to come off as negative and needy? Are you going to come off as a drama queen looking for attention or pity?

Don't Stalk

Of course you're curious about this new person in your life, but don't be a stalker. If you're going to creep, that's fine but here are a few pointers. Never, ever mention something to them in conversation that you learned exclusively on their Facebook page. That's going to give it away. Also, don't like or comment on every photo. Finally, resist the urge to use the chat every time you see them online. Just because social media gives you unlimited access to someone, doesn't mean you should use it.

Do Use Relationship Status Sparingly

I know you're excited to be with whomever it is you're with, but maybe the other person doesn't want it broadcast it to all of Facebook land. That doesn't mean that they're looking for other dates, it just means that the whole changing the relationship status is kind of a big deal. If the two of you haven't put a label on it in real 3D life, don't try and put a label on it on social media. Make sure you're on the same page before putting on your Facebook page.

Do De-Friend

Don't be afraid to hit the 'unfriend' button. If things end badly, they could write nasty things on your page, write nasty things about you to your friends, or put things on your page that could jeopardize your reputation; especially if you're friends with co-workers. The 'unfriend' button is there for a reason, so use it if you have to.