Dating in the new normal - 5 dating tips for confident women
From gut feeling to social distancing
5 tips for confident dating in the “new normal”
A perfect summer date enjoying ice cream at your favorite café or a walk by the lake: what sounds so romantic is now different for singles in the so-called “new normal”: social distancing is required everywhere, and face masks are a must. According to a survey by the online dating agency LemonSwan, three-quarters of online singles still want to meet in person. For 73 percent of women, it is important that he has the same attitude toward coronavirus measures as they do. Among men, however, this is only true for one in two. But how do women actually communicate what is important to them in terms of coronavirus protection when meeting for the first time? Sabine Schöler, CEO of the online dating agency LemonSwan, gives single women tips on how to approach their dream date in the “new normal.”
1. Trust your inner voice
This is a very general tip when it comes to online flirting and then meeting in person. Our gut feeling usually gives us clear signals that we should simply recognize and trust. Are you not ready for a meeting yet, or are you wondering whether it's okay to make advances during the first date? Trust your intuition, because it is very often right.
2. Take your time to build personal closeness
You've already flirted with him online, but when is it time for a first meeting? Again, listen to your gut feeling and, above all, don't stress yourself out: most of the singles surveyed online by LemonSwan (51 percent) have become more cautious and want to get to know each other online first. So you're not alone. Incidentally, two-thirds (65 percent) prefer to use WhatsApp calls or video calls to get to know each other. This allows you to gradually get a better idea of what he's like and then decide whether and how you want to meet him.
3. The right time to talk about coronavirus protection
The signs are good: you've gotten to know him better online and your gut feeling says yes to a meeting. At the same time, you want to discuss with him beforehand how you will deal with the issue of infection protection during your first meeting. Here, too, your pace and intuition are crucial in determining when the right time is. The charming way is definitely to express your thoughts on this before the face-to-face meeting. This way, you can approach your first date without any worries and at the same time reduce the pressure of having to start the date with a difficult topic.
4. Communicate openly: Starting the conversation
Of course, coronavirus protection is not a romantic topic, but how can you bring it up in the best possible way? It becomes easier if you speak from your own perspective and then openly ask for his opinion on the matter. For example: “I'm really looking forward to our walk, but let's talk about coronavirus protection first. I'd like to be a little more cautious on our first date and keep a certain distance. Do you feel the same way?” This leaves room for a casual exchange in which your shared perspective can grow.
5. If he gets closer than expected
The day you meet has arrived. He charms you with his wit, but in all his exuberance, he gets closer to you than you would like. What now? You can and should share your concerns with him. Explain openly and honestly that you would like to take things slower. You can do this with a charming smile that signals that you still find him very likable. The rule here is: someone who is genuinely interested will understand you. What's more, openness and authenticity make you likeable and approachable.
Methodology:
Online survey of 683 users of the platform between May 30, 2020, and June 3, 2020.
More information about the survey can be found here.
About LemonSwan
LemonSwan is a dating agency for long-term relationships that aims to make online dating more enjoyable, especially for women. Founded in 2017 by Arne Kahlke and Paul Uhlig and based in Hamburg, the company uses a scientifically based personality test, the LemonSwan® method, to provide tailor-made partner suggestions. The trademark of the young company is the swan—because these animals are faithful to their partners for life. For more information, visit www.lemonswan.com
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