Like any form of communication, one should be polite and courteous when sending messages via email.

Initially, email correspondence is the only way you have of communicating with your prospective dates and suitors.  It is therefore important that you hone your dating email skills to ensure that you communicate the desired message effectively.  With the advent of modern communication, many of use have lost the ability to write effectively.

We have collected some valuable tips on what NOT to do the next time you respond to a member email:

1. Don't start the email by introducing yourself as a newbie. Lines like "never used a dating site before" or "how do you chat" will rarely generate much interest. Remember, the recipient is here date, not find a technical support job.

2. Try to avoid suggesting other online activities until you've at least gotten one reply. Starting an email with "Do you want to chat?" if the other person doesn't know you, will probably get your message deleted. Members sometimes receive many emails daily, so you need to pique their interest from the start.

3. Never be overtly sexual during the first email exchange. "I'd like to ______ you" is not a very good way to attract a potential life mate.

South African Singles Online - Click to find your real dreams!

4. Don't ignore the information in the member's profile. They spent a lot of time trying to tell you about themselves in their profile, and don't want to have to repeat themselves. Lines like "So tell me about yourself," will show that you paid no attention to his or her profile, so why should they waste their time on you?

5. If you don't receive a response, NEVER send an email asking why you were rejected. People hate being pestered, and does the reason really matter? Accept it and move on.

Many people have a tendency to click the send button without thinking of the impact their carelessly written message will have on the recipient. In the online dating world, this can mean the difference between a speedy reply or having your account blocked by the other member.

Be polite and courteous in your emails, and you will receive more responses.