1.

Over or under selling your qualities.
How we see ourselves is usually different from how others see us. Most people don't deliberately misrepresent themselves; it is unintentional. Before you create a profile, ask your best friends and family, "If you were to describe me to someone else, what would you say?" "What do you see as my best qualities?" "If I was dating your sister, what would you warn her about?" Then, have them review your profile and see if they feel it accurately represents you. You'll be amazed at how sometimes they see more than you do and have great suggestions.

2.

Casting your net too wide. Not knowing who you are looking for.
Many people are wishy-washy about the kind of love-match they are looking for. People say, "I'm looking to meet all kinds of different people" or "I'm going with the flow and seeing what happens" It's no wonder they are disappointed when they end up dating people they have little in common with. Casting your net too wide means you'll waste a lot of time chasing the wrong fish that may not bite. Get specific, decide what you "must have", "would like" and "can't stand" in a partner. After all, if you don't know what you are looking for how can anyone know if they are a fit?

3.

Being open "any" possibility. Not focusing on the relationship you want.
There is no such thing as, "Let's start as friends and see what happens." If you start as friends, you've set the tone. It may be difficult to take to the next level without someone feeling pushed or betrayed by ulterior motives. Some people post their profiles claiming to want serious relationship but open to friendship or a walk on the wild side of casual intimate encounters. This just makes you look confused, leaves the serious e-daters asking what you really want? Whether it's someone to go to the movies with, a long-term relationship, marriage potential, or casual sex, define what you're looking for and say so.

4.

Expecting an immediate response.
"I sent you an e-mail expressing my interest yesterday and never heard from you. If you're not interested just tell me and I'll leave you alone." Whoa! Remember, just because we live in a high-speed, high tech world in hyper-drive doesn't mean you should expect instant gratification. Many of us, (especially women) get so much e-mail it's hard to keep up. Some of us only check their personal mail every few days. People are busy and you should be too! Notes like that make you sound like you're desperate, have no other interests and are waiting for the phone to ring. Be patient, wait a few days then send a second flattering note reiterating all the reasons you're interested.

5.

Expecting too much too soon.
"I like what you wrote in your profile, if you like mine, here's my phone number. I'd like to take you to dinner." This may work in a bar, but it rarely works on-line. Most people want to know something about you before they go out with you. Give them reasons to like you before you ask for their name, phone number or an evening of their time.

6.

Doing dinner on the first date.
Dinner on the first date can be excruciating with the wrong person. Why not suggest meeting for a "one-drink date" or meeting over coffee, then see if it makes sense to go any further.

7.

Not asking enough questions before you
decide to meet.
Sure, everyone wants a night on the town, but don't rush out the door too fast. Read profiles carefully and ask at least three interesting questions in each e-mail. Be sure your potential date has what you are looking for and you have something in common. Spending a few hours with nothing to talk about is a real drag. Worse yet, if you're looking for a serious relationship or to have kids and they aren't what's the point of dating at all?

8.

Revealing too much personal information
up front.
Where you live, work, phone number, cell phone, local hangout, these are all things that should only be revealed when you have gotten to know one another and are very comfortable. Aside from the obvious potential for stalking, they can lead to unexpected surprises and embarrassing encounters.

9.

Surfing or juggling too many
potential dates.
WOW! You posted a profile, sent a few winks or e-mails expressing interest and now your inbox is flooded with potential dates. It's classic rookie mistake to engage in too many conversations and juggle too much information. You'll give yourself a headache trying to keep them all straight. Be discriminating, pick the best three and send a gracious thanks but no thanks to the rest. Then keep an e-dating journal with notes to keep your dates, facts and conversations straight.

10.

Dating by default. Don't settle, surf.
"He doesn't have all the qualities I was looking for but he's a nice guy and we usually have fun together." You've connected with someone you enjoy going out with or makes you laugh. It sure beats staying home on a Saturday night. Right? Besides, who knows you could grow to love him? Dating because it's convenient or because you gave up on finding the guy or girl of your dreams only makes you desperate and date by default. There are millions of fish in the Internet Sea. Why settle when you can surf? If the chemistry isn't right, or one doesn't match your criteria, there are thousands more that will. Have patience and a little faith in destiny.