Expectations for First Meetings

'Expectations' might not be quite the right word, but it's close. I have general ideas on how a first meeting should go. These are flexible and are simply guidelines, but in general they fit.

I know a lot of girls expect a gift of some sort on the first meeting, but I never have expected that, and I never have received that. What I do expect is for the man to pay for whatever drink/food I order. This has never been an issue, as I think it's understood. Also, I would say 75% of the time the man offers to pay for my cab ride home. I usually accept this, and it's always nice to have it offered.

First meetings should never be too long. I would say anything over an hour and a half is too long. One man said he only had time for a quick meeting, and then we ended up sitting in the bar for three hours. Too long!

Topics of conversation should be like any first date, although when we first meet in the bar/restaurant/whatever I never say 'So nice to meet you' or anything like that. I wouldn't want the people around us to think anything other than innocent things about what we are up to. I do talk a bit about my background, but I keep it vague. I'm always surprised when men give me very intimate details of their lives, when they've only just met me!

In general, I'm here to see if we have any chemistry. Don't try too hard, it backfires. I'm also making sure that you are who you said you were online. Most importantly, I'm doing a gut check. Do you freak me out? Do I get a bad vibe? Do I feel that I could spend time with you and enjoy it?

That's it!