By: Bela Gandhi, Dating Expert & Smart Dating Academy Founder

The scare of COVID-19 has taken over the planet and quickly changed our everyday routines. Unfortunately, dating isn’t an exception. While it’s evident that going out for dinner and a movie is currently out of the question, there’s a bright side. You can now date more, date better and cheaper than ever!

Here are 10 simple steps: 

1) Embrace a virtual date: Forget about the in-person first dates! Skyping, FaceTime, Zoom and video platforms have quickly become the “new normal.”

2) Choose the right backdrop: Pile of dirty clothes? Make sure those are out of the frame. Just like the ambiance of a restaurant can set the tone of a date, so can where you sit in your house. Choose a space that’s clean, well-decorated and, most importantly, well-lit.

3) Dress accordingly: Get ready just like you would for an actual date. Ladies, get out of the yoga clothes and put your berry lip on. Guys, grab a comb and clean shirt. Yup, I said it.

4) Don’t forget to do a video and sound check: This is a great way to avoid any technical difficulties during the actual date. It also allows you to see what you’ll look like in the camera and test out your facial expressions. (No RBF!) 

5) Get something to sip on: Make your favorite drink – whether it’s a cocktail, mocktail or tea – so it feels like a real date. It will also give you something to do with your hands if you feel nervous.

6) Prepare a few questions: Having great questions to ask in your back pocket is always a good idea, whether you’re meeting online or in person. 

7) Stay positive: It might be tempting to discuss the gloom and doom that’s going on around us, but don’t let this dominate the conversation. You want the other person to walk away feeling happy and excited, not like they just watched a depressing news segment. 

8) Timing is everything: Remember that a successful FaceTime can be as little as 20-30 minutes. So don’t feel you have to stay on the phone all night in order to call it a success.

9) Schedule another virtual date: If all goes well, don’t be afraid to tell them you’d like to “meet” again. You can stick to another easy FaceTime, or plan an activity, like cooking via Skype. 

10) Plan for the future: You’re not going to be stuck at home forever. Keep each other excited by discussing what activities or restaurants you’d like to enjoy together when you can finally meet in person.

Use this extra time at home to your advantage – put yourself out there and open your mind the possibility of making a real connection. I think that’s something we all need right now. If you have additional questions, visit Dating While Distancing or call our free hotline at 1-888-302-6224.  If you’d like to work with Bela at Smart Dating Academy, and/or download their FREE guide called “7 Clues You’re Dating a Narcissist” go to www.smartdatingacademy.com.  This will ensure you fix your picker while you date!  Or follow them on IG @smartdatingacademy.