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Discuss the best way to easily communicate early on- be it calling, texting, or email. Don’t assume that they check email every day or keep their cell phone on at all times; ask what works best for them. Try not to rely too heavily on text or email at first. Talk on the phone or meet in person a few times to get familiar with each other’s tone and sense of humor so that you can better understand their correspondence style. This is particularly relevant if either of you has a dry sense of humor. Sarcasm doesn’t translate well in text format so be cautious so that you don’t confuse your date or put them on the defensive.
“Take an honest assessment of your past behaviors and think of solutions in order to improve without making excuses.”
Showing up on time is the first indicator that you take your commitments seriously. A lot of preparation goes into designating the time and place, getting dolled up, and traveling to your destination. The time your date spends waiting for you is time they spend doubting their decision to meet up with you. Every minute counts so make the most of your time -and theirs- to start things off on the upswing.
Be responsive. If someone were to greet you in person you wouldn’t ignore them! So if you get a text, call or email respond as soon as you are able. Calls should be returned within 24 hours and, because texting is instantaneous, take a second to respond even if to say that you aren’t able to chat now, but that you will follow up at X time. The clock ticks a lot slower when you are waiting for a response!
Take an honest assessment of your past behaviors and think of solutions in order to improve without making excuses. Have you ever heard someone say “I’m just not a phone person”? In today’s world of modern technology, there is no reason not to be a good communicator. If you are consistently running late (your boss can probably give you an honest answer!), make a point to always be at your destination 30 minutes early. Unexpected things may arise occasionally and when they do, acknowledge the situation, offer an apology, and set up that next date!
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