You can find every type of person that tickles your fancy with online dating - but before you begin pinging every hot profile, make sure you know the 10 rules about online dating sites. Online dating is a fast growing networking tool that can open your world to a myriad of relationship possibilities. Meeting someone new is challenging, especially if you have recently moved, graduated from college, or gone through a divorce. Here are 10 quick tips appropriate for anyone trying their hand at online dating. 1. Understand yourself Determine what you are looking for in a relationship and state it clearly. If you just want to meet people for fun weekends and casual dating, let it be known. It is also acceptable to draw the line at chat rooms, if you don't feel ready for face-to-face meetings. Whatever your standard is, be consistent and firm, ensuring that you do not get hurt. 2. Use your network Many people are finding their relationships with online dating. You'll be surprised to find out that your friends are spending time in chat rooms and sorting through profiles. Ask them what works, and what sites to use. The best advice comes from someone you trust. 3. Slow and steady... There is no need to rush into taking the next step with online dating. Spend as much time in the chat room or talking on the phone as you want - make sure you're ready to meet face-to-face to create a good experience for the both of you. 4. Honesty is the best policy Online dating presents the opportunity to "enhance" your accomplishments. You may also find out that the person behind the profile may "neglect to mention" their four kids. If you honestly want to reach your goals, then be honest in online dating! 5. Prioritize your preferences Online dating is stressful since it allows you to search through millions of potential matches. Try to limit the number of people you contact and respond to at first. If you focus on just a few people, sincere relationships can be established and nurtured. 6. Not all text is truth Snakes in the grass are everywhere on the internet. It's completely acceptable to question the information provided to you in a chat room or on a personal profile. Don't be afraid to check public records or make a few phone calls for verification purposes. 7. Practice etiquette in the chat room Just because you are in a chat room does not mean you should say everything you think or feel. Stop and consider - if this person was sitting across from you in a restaurant, would you say the same thing you just typed? If your words would be uncomfortable in person, then think of something else to say. 8. Online dating services are a good investment It is a good idea to invest in you! There are many online dating services that charge a membership fee. Considering that people who are willing to pay for a service might be more serious about who they are and what they want - leading to better relationships. 9. Correspond quickly If you are new to the internet and computers, it is possible that you won't access chat rooms or your email every day. Try not to make yourself too unavailable, as interested parties might lose patience if they wait a week to hear an email response, or they never see your screen name light up in the chat room. 10. Protect yourself If you decided that a face-to-face meeting is in order, consider your own safety. Meet in a public place with many people and provide your own transportation. This applies to not only the first date, but the subsequent ones as well if you have a good time.