Any more then 5 email exchanges without asking me out and you're no longer a potential date, you're a pen-pal. I'm not looking for a pen-pal.

As much as I love getting emails saying that I'm cute/pretty/beautiful/hot, my looks only go so far as a topic of conversation; try and include an additional topic in your email to connect with me.

Maybe read my profile?

Talk a few times via email and phone before the meet up.

Pick a neighborhood to meet that neither of you live in.

Never tell them where you live (actual streets, ‘hood is fine).

The first time, meet only for a drink or coffee, never a meal. Also, making plans for after the drink with a friend is smart so you have an excuse - and if you like him then it encourages you to make plans for a second meet-up.

Don't stay for a second drink if you don't like them, just get out. You need to be selfish in this process.

Tell a friend where you are going and his name and number (seems too cautious, but you never know).

Be honest.

Keep some mystery, no need to tell the guy your life story over a blind drink.

Don't hook up until you are really sure.

If you go home with him and he is a hoarder, run run…RUN.

If the dates doesn’t go well, politely send him an email to say thanks, but don’t ask any questions to require a response…or another date. No need to pretend you like someone if you don’t.

On the other hand, if the date goes well, politely send him a text to say thanks, mentioning how much fun you had…with an inside joke or story from your date. Propose a casual date and ask questions that require a response.

Keep the level of intrigue up: Hang out for awhile and then be conveniently unavailable. As they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder.