Craigslist Rules

So I'm pretty fearless when it comes to craigslist. I have no problem meeting men, and quite often I meet some great guys. RedSox for example... in fact most of the men written of in this blog are from craigslist.

When I posted an ad in M4W in Denver, I received the typical 60+ responses. I met about 7 of them. I'll get to writing about those men within the next few days, but I wanted to let you know how I manage this. One of my friends has recommended that I write a guidebook for craigs. No need for a guidebook. Just follow a few simple rules and guidelines:

1. The "Delete" button on email is your best friend. Don't be afraid to use it. If something(ANYTHING) is off, DELETE!

2. Ask for a picture in your post. Physical attraction is the first and foremost important part of chemistry. If a guy doesn't send a pic, and doesn't explain why, DELETE. If he refuses to send one, DELETE.

3. You must be able to see his face in the pic. Some men send pics of their abs. I do find that hot, but I'm gonna be looking at his face when we meet.

3. If you ask for a pic, you MUST have one to send in return. If you post your pic in your ad, make sure it's accurate.

4. Don't feel offended if you send a guy your pic and he never replies. We have types too and delete many responses because we didn't feel a spark. He saved you a headache.

5. Keep your post short. Most men click on posts just to see the pic and mostly will respond based on how hard they get by looking at you. It's no different from daily life.

6. Some men cast a deep net when it comes to craigs. This means they respond to every single M4W ad. These guys are easy to spot. Their response to you is the length of a novel and don't reference anything you said in your ad. If you get one of these guys, DELETE.

7. Meeting the guy: you have to meet sooner rather than later. Emailing gets old very quickly. He should be willing to set up coffee or something after a few emails. If it's going on forever and he's not asking, DELETE. (and of course meet in a public place)

8. Go into each date with NO expectations. Some men will not look like their picture. Some will have lied about their name, age, occupation, etc. You might have to pay for your own meal. Be prepared for this, but nonetheless try to enjoy yourself. It's great practice for the future.

9. Get his phone number before the date and yes... be willing to give him yours. People run late, go to the wrong restaurant, have an emergency. Personally, I like to text him 5 mins before I arrive to see where he is on route. There have been times where I've been stood up, so I'd like to try and figure that out before I sit down at a table.

10. Always say thank you. Definitely at the end of the night, even better in a follow-up email.

11. Briefly evaluate the date. Did you like him? Keep it simple: Yes or No only.

12. He might never contact you again. As a blogger friend's mom once said "Rejection is God's Protection." Take it with a grain of salt and go for the next guy.

13. You may not want to go out again. Be honest. Just say "thanks, but I didn't feel chemistry." He might reply with a vicious email... DELETE.

14. Lastly, let me just re-iterate the first rule. The "Delete" button is your best friend. Use it as often as you wish.