You've chosen a couple of online dating websites, you have created your profile, and you have posted some nice, realistic photos. So where do you go from here? What do you say the first time someone emails or instant messages you? Of course, you want to be friendly and be yourself, but you also want to avoid common corny pick-up lines and phrases. Here are a few examples:

1. "I really feel like we have a connection". How on earth can you know whether or not you have a connection when you've only talked once or twice and you have never met someone in person. They may be fun to talk to online or even on the phone, and be totally boring in person. Don't say you have a "connection" when there's really no way of knowing that yet.

2. "You're really good-looking. We'd make cute kids together." The person you are talking with is just getting to know you, and probably does not want to think about marriage yet, let alone having children with you.

So what are some things you should say or ask, the first time you are talking with someone you met online? Ask them more about their job--find out exactly what they do and how much they enjoy it. Ask them about what they like to do for fun. Even if they have some of these things listed on their dating profile, you can always ask them more specific details. For example, if they say they like to jog, ask them where they jog or how long they jog each day. If you also like to jog, you can then respond with similar information. This is a great way to keep a conversation going.

Online dating really does work, but a lot depends on you. Check out www.christian-online-dating-guide.com for more helpful articles and advice. Thoughtful, clear, and honest conversation will go a lot further than trite compliments. Think before you speak!

Rebekah Spicer is a relationship expert, and helps to manage the popular website http://www.Christian-online-dating-guide.com.