1. The initial meeting- Ok, let’s face it. It’s 2010 and people DO connect via social networking sites, that’s just how it is. Chances are, the person you’re talking to has the same friends as you do, so you probably would’ve met anyway. Networking sites just speed the pace up a bit, so don’t feel bad.

2. Goes without saying, but meet in a well lit, public area and drive separately. You never know. Your sister in law’s baby cousin’s uncle Day Day MIGHT wear a human skin suit, so always have an escape route.

3. Dress appropriately; don’t over accessorize. For example, if the night DOES go well (and you’re the type to put out on the first date), you don’t want to lose your hat, earrings, or extensions in the shuffle. Plus, guys don’t like a lot of “extras” and WILL NOT send them back if you lose them.

4. Be prepared to pay at least half. In this economy, there’s no room for old fashioned ideas. Sure, it’s a nice thought that the man should always pay, but if you ask someone to dinner, do the right thing and foot the bill. It’s not only fair, but modern. Besides, you don’t know where dude’s head (or wallet’s at) so be prepared.

5. Step away from Twitter. This is especially crucial if you follow your date and vice versa. I mean, how does “On a date with a secret someone…” appear to be in the slightest bit elusive? It doesn’t, so stop it! NO ONE CARES (especially the ex you’re trying to piss off).

6. Also goes without saying, but never discuss the EX. More so, never try to out-cool each other’s ex’s. This I can tell you from experience. It doesn’t matter how many celebrity parties your ex has dj’ed or if your date’s ex was a semi finalist on America’s Next Top Model. Trying to “OUT-EX” each other will inevitably cause many painful rifts in the long run. However, it IS necessary to clarify if you’re friends with an ex. Your date (as well as YOURSELF) should realize that there was a previous life before you entered each other’s. This doesn’t mean you have to constantly talk about it. Ignorance IS bliss at times, believe me.

5. Be cool. That phrase comes in handy throughout the entire course of a date. Stay calm, talk slow; THINK. Every move should be carefully poised and calculated. If this seems more like a tutorial on how to get through a job interview, that’s good because that’s exactly what a first date is, duh!

6. Ask questions but don’t do ALL the talking, that’s annoying. Even if you could give two shits about the guy, you’ll always be remembered as the least annoying one if things don’t work out.

7. Be brutally honest. If all you’re trying to do is get your lil jay-jay wet, then go for it. But keep it trill. Don’t feel obligated to waste time and minutes on someone you just want to bang for a few. Honesty is truly the key for any successful relationship, whether it be one year or one night.

8. Don’t take on your date’s persona. I have seen this happen far too often. If your date is a die hard J. Dilla fan, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don’t try and front like you are too. Bitch, don’t even pretend to know who that fool is. You like Tiesto, big deal. But don’t fake the funk and make sure to let your REAL self shine.

9. Never discuss: Religion, politics, other people, and MONEY. Those topics are a surefire way to end a date. Nothing screams DESPERATE than bragging about your trust fund. New money is tacky anyway.

10. Buyer Beware. KNOW who you’re going on a date with. If your top priority is to date an athlete or a rapper (sorry to hear about that) then don’t have over the top expectations of them! There’s a reason behind a social stigma, so either deal with it or don’t fuck with it. That simple.