1. Where to “Take” Your Date
Don’t:
Have a date from where you work. After all, you wouldn’t invite your date to your work office, would you?
Your body and muscles have a memory retention “work mode.” It’s a different energy, and you’re less likely to be your true self.
Do:
- Sit on the floor (it has so many health benefits!), your favourite chair, lounge, balcony or place in the garden – avoid your bedroom.
- Get a stand for your phone so you are relaxed.
- Try to show your whole body.
2) How to Dress
Don’t:
Be lazy with your outfit. Sure, you might be at home – relaxed and comfortable on your couch. But it’s not an excuse to be in your trackie. Sitting at your work desk, you might get away with something nice on top and nothing below, but you have to put your best foot forward on a date.
The physiological effects associated with non-verbal communication show up in what you wear (and can alter your confidence).
Do:
Dress as you would on any date. Make exactly the same effort from head to toe.
3) Location, Location, Location
Don’t:
Have a virtual date with a messy house. You won’t have a second chance to make a first impression.
Do:
- Clean up – show your date you made an effort. Ask your housemates/children to keep the noise down and give you privacy. Nobody likes the feeling of competing for attention.
- Look at where you are talking from – record beforehand to see what other people see.
4) What to Do on a Virtual Date
Don’t:
Limit your date to conversation – it’s hard for many people to talk in a virtual world for long periods. Make dates visual and exciting rather than a rinse and repeat experience.
Do:
Think of creative ways to share positive dating experiences. Check out virtual tours through art galleries, nature reserves, zoos, museums – you can take the tours together, chat along the way, and find more common ground.
Read this post for more specific online date ideas for your budding relationship.
5) What to Talk About
Don’t:
Spend the whole time talking about negative COVID-related doom and gloom. That goes for any negative stuff in your life – including your ex and work. Remember, it’s a date… not a counselling session.
Do:
Keep dates light. They should be a fun and uplifting experience. Be mindful of what you share.
6) How to Look Good on Video
Don’t:
- Use filters: we’ve all spent enough time on zoom to know when someone’s using a filter. Although the beauty filter and bunny ears may sound tempting, they’re easy to spot and can make you look insincere.
- Edit your profile photo within an inch of its life – it’s important to look good and stand out, but you need to look like yourself.
Do:
Position yourself in flattering light or invest in a ring light. It makes all the difference and showcases the real you!
Blooper Reel: 4 Bonus Do’s and Don’ts
- Don’t eat (unless you’re eating together)
- Don’t pass wind (we can hear you!)
- Don’t leave your earbuds in when you take a loo break
- Don’t get drunk!
