If you’re single and actively seeking a love interest, where do you like to hang out? Trendy bars with a reputation for a relaxing ambiance? Nightclubs where the guest DJs spin the latest dance chart sensations? How about the online environment? There can be no denying that the latter is growing in popularity. But whether you prefer face-to-face conversation or flirting in the digital environment, there are certain rules you must follow. This is especially the case in the digital world, where you have the opportunity to interact with singles from different countries. Let’s take a deeper dive into global online dating etiquette.
Dating across borders
When it comes to utilizing the Internet to find a love interest, you need to understand one thing. You could find yourself flirting with individuals from anywhere. Whether your ideal partner might be a one-night friend or you’re actively seeking a soulmate, there’s every chance you could be interacting with a lovely Latino, an amorous Aussie, or a sultry Slav. These sites and their app version have become so popular. You couldn’t possibly be aware of the dating etiquette applicable to every culture, but you should at least approach the messaging channels with an open mind. Don’t jump to take offense because someone makes a direct approach or uses an expression that might be considered taboo where you come from. Cut the person you are communicating with some slack!
Western etiquette
Pay attention to some general points. When engaging with the aforementioned Latinos, you’ll often be negotiating a tentative tightrope! While singles from Spain, Portugal, and Italy have a reputation for being hot-blooded and exuberant, they are also from a culture that has long been dominated by the Catholic church. The younger generation will be more open to intimate or suggestive messages, but they will still be attentive to what older relatives might think. The best option? Hold back from being too forward and flirty until you’ve got to know the person a little better. Once you’ve established more of a rapport, you should instinctively know what you can get away with without offending!
Africa and Asia
While it’s difficult to make sweeping statements about entire continents, you should be aware of certain generalizations. Singles from parts of Africa and Asia will be a lot less confident about discussing sexual issues in a forthright way. When it comes to video chatting (offered as a communication option in many online dating outlets), make sure you never point at the other person. This will be considered rude. Many singles from these cultures are used to expressing how they feel more subtly than coming out with it in conversation, especially via text or emails. They’ll be familiar with art or music, dance, or even sculpture being used as a metaphor for aspects of life, especially their love lives. Never be disheartened if the single you are chatting to seems less engaged than you are or wishes to chat about her favorite pieces of art or music. You’ll have to recognize she is using these to flirt with you!
Dating etiquette is no different from how you should behave respectfully in many other walks of life. We’ve offered some pointers about behaving towards prospective partners across the world. Another important aspect of brushing up on your social skills should be keeping abreast of current affairs. This will help you empathize with people from different cultures. Ensure you read a cross-section of interesting and stimulating books. Broadening your mind will keep you mentally sharp and able to invest in your relationships.
