Free Online Dating Advice: Investigate and Spread the Word!

During the past couple of months, I've been dating like crazy. I am determined to find a compatible mate, even if it kills me. Well, maybe not kills me but short of that, I am willing to do whatever it takes. Speaking of getting killed, I've been answering a lot of random ads on Craigslist, too; it almost seems to be a better, faster way to meet like-minded people. I am aware hooking up on Craigslist has become synonymous with being suicidal, but it's only because people are not careful.

I never go out with anyone unless I confirm it's safe. I run a quick online background check and find out everything there is to know about this person from public records: whether he has a criminal history or financial problems, whether he is really divorced and the age he says he is, his address, cell phone number - everything. Then, if everything checks out, armed with this information, I meet him in person.

I know the prevailing opinion is to never tell someone if you've been snooping around, but today's free online dating advice I want to share with you disagrees with this idea. I tell my dates I had them checked out. Not right away, mind you; I have my fun first. Imagine having a conversation with someone you just met, knowing all you know about him - from his ex-wife's and son's names to his astrological birth sign - and every once in a while dropping a subtle hint, a shred of information he'd never shared - and watch his bewildered expression. Okay, now it's time to tell him.

Not only is it honest, but your date's reaction to the fact that you took precaution and made sure he is a trustworthy individual is also telling: normally, it should not make him angry. When I tell my dates how I know what I know, after initial surprise and explanations, they generally think it's a good idea. Many men understand the dangers single women may be up against when trying to find a love match. If he has nothing to hide, he may be surprised initially, but once he thinks about it, he will commend you. Here's another piece of free online dating advice: encourage him to have you checked out, too. It is such a relief to know that your date is an honest person with no sordid past, just like you. This establishes mutual trust from the get-go, and the relationship has a much better chance of surviving and blossoming into something special.

Times change and so do societal practices. Many things we take for granted today were not as widely accepted 20 years ago. Necessary safety precautions tend to become the norm quickly. It's kind of similar to the 80s AIDS epidemic that made unprotected sex a dangerous taboo. Today, if anyone even mentions it, you know to steer clear because you want to live a long, healthy life. In a few more years, doing a quick online investigation will be just as routine. So, ladies, if we are brave and honest about our need to feel safe, the trend that is still new and questioned by some is going to become entrenched in everyone's life as a necessity. That's why today's free online dating advice is meant to encourage you to take it out there and make others use and accept it. And while you're at it, don't forget to have fun.