Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Foursquare - Over the last few years, these networks have completely changed the way we live our lives. We are connected in new and exciting ways with people... so many people.
Which begs the question, How does social media affect dating?
Well, much like other technology, sometimes social media can get in our way. In order to prevent that from happening, it's important to be thoughtful about how we use it, the messages we're sending out, and how we interact online with the people we're dating.
Here are a few smart rules to follow:
1) Be conscious of the fact that your date will google you. Make sure that the information available about you online is consistent with the story you're telling about yourself. Update and clean up your online image, as required.
2) Remove the pictures of you and your ex(es) from your facebook and other social networks.
3) Don't tweet or post status updates about your dates. Those updates might not be as private as you think they are.
4) Be cautious about adding your date to your social network. The first date is probably (definitely) too soon. Wait until you're sure about how you feel for this new person, and vice versa. Unfriending is awkward.
