One of the great things about Tinder (and other mobile based dating apps like it) is that you can use the service to meet people whenever and wherever your life takes you. However, like with most new technology, it’s important that you keep in mind, “just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” For example, just because you can message a potential date while your current date is in the bathroom, doesn’t mean you necessarily should – if you’re hoping to maintain some modicum of dating etiquette and your standing as a decent human.
Not sure what’s an appropriate time and place to use Tinder? Here’s a few examples of when and where you should and shouldn’t use the app.
Use Tinder when…
You’re relaxing at home.
A quiet night at home is the perfect time to get your Tinder on. Picture it: you’re in comfortable clothes, you have Friends playing on Netflix, maybe you have a glass of wine or an ice cold beer in hand – ah, perfection. Why not sweeten the deal and add some swiping and chatting with other singles into the mix? Think about it: striking up conversations with new people online can feel a bit awkward at times, so why not do it while you’re comfortable, relaxed and in your element? So, maybe you miss part of that episode where Joey gets stuck in a cupboard- good. You’ve seen that episode eight times already. Swipe away my friends, swipe away! (You might even score a date that will require you put on pants and leave the house. Huzzah!)
Out with friends.
If you think that people only use Tinder and other location based dating apps while they’re all by their lonesome, you’re dead wrong. There’s been many nights when I’ve been out with a group of girlfriends where someone has whipped out their phone and said, “you need to check out this guy on Tinder!” While it’s important that you respect people’s privacy, sometimes it’s nice to get a second opinion from a friend as to whether you should swipe left or swipe right. Besides, if you’re curious about someone but aren’t sure if you’re up for the formality of a one-on-one date, the nice thing about Tinder is you can say something like, “Hey, I’m just at this pub with a group of friends watching a game. Want to stop by?”
You’re traveling.
Tinder makes a great travel companion. Let’s say your company sent you to a conference alone, in a city where you know no one. If sitting in your hotel room, watching pay-per-view isn’t your idea of a good time, this is where apps like Tinder come in. Whether you’re looking for a casual hook-up or just a drink and some good conversation with someone new, apps like Tinder allow you to connect with local singles wherever you are. Why not take advantage of it?
Do not use Tinder when…
You’re already on a date with someone else.
Here’s where that old adage “just because you can, doesn’t mean you should” comes in. Apps like Tinder have made it easier for us to connect; however, they’ve also made it easier for us to be jerks. Just because you met on Tinder doesn’t mean that all dating etiquette goes out the window. Focus on your date. Leave your phones out of sight while you get to know each other. Do not make plans to meet up with someone else, the minute they get up to use the bathroom. In other words, don’t be a jerk. Tinder and all of the swiping that awaits you will still be there after you wrap up your date.
You’re at work.
Although I’m positive that people do use Tinder while they’re at work, it’s important that you exercise discretion. Like any non-work related activities, swiping left and right while you’re in a board meeting probably isn’t going to help you move up the corporate ladder. Just saying.
You’re very drunk.
Remember that time when you had four too many Bourbon sours and swiped right on that guy with multiple face tattoos and a parrot on his shoulder and then he called you the next day? Of course you do (however you wish you didn’t.) This happened while you were drinking and Tindering. For the record, it’s not a good combination. When using Tinder, at least make sure you’re moderately sober so that you don’t give away personal information or make other mistakes that you’ll regret in the morning.
You’re already on a date with someone else.
Seriously, don’t do this. The end.