Tariq had plenty of matches and great text conversations, but somehow things never moved beyond the screen. Weeks would pass chatting with a match until the energy fizzled out. Frustrated, he realised he was getting stuck in an endless pen pal zone. Determined to change, Tariq made a new rule: after a few days of good rapport, he would suggest a quick video chat or casual meetup. Sure enough, when he matched with Lina, they exchanged a few friendly messages and then hopped on a 20-minute video call to see if the vibe was right. It was. By the end of the week, they met for coffee, and both were relieved to find they clicked in person just as well as online.Making the leap from messaging to a real date can be nerve-racking, but it is a crucial step. Chemistry through text only goes so far; meeting face to face (or at least video to video) is the real test of compatibility. To set yourself up for success, be honest in your profile and chats so that the person meeting you has a pretty accurate idea of who you are. Studies of couples who met online show that the most successful ones felt their partner met or exceeded their expectations in real life, in part because those people presented themselves authentically from the start. In other words, if you have been genuine, you’ve got nothing to fear when it’s time to meet.Tips for a Smooth First Meeting:Timing Is Key: Do not rush to meet within the first hello, but also do not wait forever. After establishing some mutual interest, propose a low-pressure meetup (like a coffee or a video call) to see if the connection translates.Keep It Casual and Public: For that first in-person meeting, pick a relaxed, public setting. It keeps both parties comfortable and safe, and an hour over coffee or a walk is enough to sense chemistry without heavy commitment.Manage Expectations: Go in with an open mind. Instead of expecting a storybook romance instantly, view the first meeting as a chance to meet a new person. Even if sparks do not fly, you might gain a friend or just a good story.Call to Action: If you have a chat that is going well right now, consider taking the initiative. Suggest a short video chat or meet up for a quick coffee. Turning a match into a real-life encounter can be scary, but it is also exciting, and it is the only way to find out if your digital connection is the real deal.Sources: psychologytoday.com