Blind dates: Tips on how to get to know a total stranger.

Many single people who have agreed to go on a blind date fill their thoughts of negativity through fear of their blind date turning out to be a disaster. Whilst statistically the odds for a chemical match up are stacked against blind daters, there are certainly successful romantic outcomes that do eventuate, it's a matter of persisting until your number comes up.

Dating on the internet has become the modern form of blind dating. Whilst you may have not actually met your date in person, you have the opportunity to check out their appearance, profile and exchange emails, so at least you have a bit of a gut feeling before your first date.

Traditional blind dating can be a very daunting experience for singles . The thought of knowing you are about to be stuck in a one on one environment and completely throwing caution to the wind can be horrifying. Suggestion - plan your blind date with several outcomes in mind...

Be open minded. You have never laid eyes on this person before so it's important to give him the benefit of the doubt and try not to have any particular outlooks. All you will be doing is setting yourself up to be let down. Allow at least 10 minutes to decide if there is any chance of attraction.

Don't book in for a long lunch. Keep your blind date short and to the point. Your sole purpose for the meet up is to decide whether there is a romantic possibility. The last thing you want to do is get stuck in a swish restaurant for a 3 course meal and realize you have nothing to talk about - Don't do it to yourself, instead meet him in a coffee shop, or during your lunch break from work.

Plan an emergency departure. Probably the most important thing about a blind date is having a plan B in case things don't go to plan. Arrange for a friend to call you in 20 minutes and pretend you have been called into work. Of course if you are enjoying his company, don't answer your phone. Let him know that you are meeting your friends in half an hour for a drink to give you an early exit strategy, again, if you are enjoying his company, swap your coffee for a glass of wine and move onto a bar.

Don't try to be someone you're not. One of the worst things you can do when you meet someone for the first time is to mis-represent yourself. If you're using online dating sites , don't post a picture of a super model, and don't lie about your occupation and net worth just to impress. You will only end up wasting yours and other peoples time and cause yourself unnecessary embarrassment in the long run. Turn up for your date dressed to impress, but don't change your image for someone else, let them meet the real you.

Time to leave and say Good-bye. This part of the date can be pretty uncomfortable, and you need to be very clear about your intentions. If you feel comfortable with him and you think a kiss on the cheek will send him a message that your interested, then kiss him as you leave. If you have no intention of seeing him again, let him know by wishing him good luck with his other blind dates and don't make any hint of seeing him again.

Remember, blind dating is purely an exercise to see whether you share a mutual physical attraction and have things in common, so pay special attention to his taste in music, wine, food, leisure activities etc If you have nothing in common, make sure you have prepared your exit strategy.