Virtual Dating Do’s and Don’ts: 8 Tips for Dating Success

Virtual dating is often something that’s associated with the global pandemic when everyone was hunkered down inside and unable to go out and meet people in person. However, virtual dating has actually occurred long before (and long after!) the days of lockdown. 

What exactly is virtual dating? It’s simply the act of meeting and interacting with your date via a video call. Your first date might occur over a video call or you might plan a virtual date when you can’t meet up in person. Some turn to virtual dating as a way to test the waters before meeting in public, while others use virtual dating to meet people who don’t live in the same city as them. What’s more, you can even use it as a way to connect with your partner when they’re not in the same place as you. 

If you’re new to the world of virtual dating, we’re here to help you navigate all the ins and outs of it. From dealing with video calling technology to making a good first impression, we’ve gathered our favorite virtual dating tips. When you follow our advice, you just might find yourself scoring a second virtual (or in-person!) date.

1. Do Test Your Technology Ahead of Time

There’s nothing worse than logging on to a video call only to find your internet is glitchy, your camera is broken, or your video app needs updating. Not only is it annoying, but it can be distracting, too! 

Therefore, this virtual dating tip involves testing your technology before joining the call. Make sure everything is working correctly in advance so you can spend more time getting to know your date and less time troubleshooting your computer or smartphone. 

2. Don’t Forget to Check Your Surroundings

While you’re trying out your video app, be sure to test out your camera and see what’s in the frame. After all, the last thing you want is to realize you can see your dirty laundry, messy bathroom, or misbehaving pet in the background once you’re on the video call. 

When in doubt, it’s best to find a spot with a blank background, so your date can focus on you rather than distractions behind you. 

3. Don’t Worry if It Feels Awkward at First

No matter how outgoing you are or how good of a conversationalist you may be, first dates are usually awkward, especially if you’re just starting to date again.

Instead of fighting this fact, it’s best to roll with it. It’s ok if you get tongue-tied, say something a little embarrassing, or find yourself facing a lull in the conversation. Simply laugh it off or acknowledge the awkwardness without letting it consume you. Don’t make the awkwardness a bigger deal than it needs to be.

4. Do Dress for Success

If you’re going on a virtual first date, you’ll want to make a good first impression. Don’t sign on looking like you just rolled out of bed as this can seem like you’re not willing to make an effort or that the date doesn’t mean anything to you. 

We’re not suggesting you dress to the nines, but we are recommending that you wear something presentable that’s not part of your PJs or workout attire. While you’re at it, run a comb through your hair, check for any stains on your clothes, and make sure you don’t have any food in your teeth! 

5. Don’t Show Your Face if They’re Not Showing Theirs

While virtual dating typically seems more safe than in-person dating, there are still some scams and sketchy behavior you need to be aware of. One warning flag might be if your date doesn’t turn on their camera. 

Sure, there might be a harmless reason behind why they’re not turning on their camera, but it’s best not to show your face if they’re not showing theirs. Either turn your camera off or end the call, especially if you suspect something fishy is going on. 

6. Do Think of Questions to Discuss

Let’s face it, modern dating can be uncomfortable at times. Maybe your date is so cute they’re making you forget your first name, or perhaps you’re introverted and conversation doesn’t always come naturally to you. 

Whatever the case, we suggest coming up with a few open-ended questions and conversation starters in the event things go quiet. You don’t want to seem like you’re grilling your date, but asking something simple like, “Where did you grow up?” or “What’s your favorite vacation spot?” can help drive the conversation while helping you get to know that person better. 

7. Don’t Feel Like You Have to Stay on the Call for Hours

If you’re having a crazy good conversation and feeling the chemistry, by all means, talk away! But if you’re not enjoying yourself, forcing conversation, or feeling uncomfortable, it’s ok to cut the call short. Chances are, if you’re not feeling it, your date isn’t feeling it either.

The beauty of virtual dating is that you can hang up at any time and get back to what you were doing without having to pay the waiter, walk to your car, and drive home like you would on an ordinary in-person date.

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative

If you’re going on a virtual first date, we suggest focusing on having an in-depth conversation where you are fully focused on getting to know each other. However, if this is your fifth or fifteenth date with this person, you might want to switch it up and look into some other virtual date ideas. For example, instead of sitting there staring at one another on the screen, why not watch a movie at the same time, cook the same meal, or engage in the same activity like painting a picture or solving a crossword puzzle together? Doing a virtual activity together can help you bond and close the distance between you. 

Whether you’re interested in meeting your date over a video call before meeting in person or simply looking for new ways to date, follow these virtual dating dos and don’ts for the ultimate success!