What to check before meeting someone for the first time
Use a clear plan, confirm expectations and choose a meeting arrangement that you can change or leave if needed.
Confirm four things before leaving
- Where you will meet and which station exit or landmark you mean.
- The approximate time and how long each person expects to stay.
- How to contact each other if someone is delayed.
- What kind of meeting each person is expecting.
Keep the first plan simple
A simple first plan is easier to change if either person feels uncomfortable. Avoid making the first meeting dependent on an advance payment, an expensive reservation or someone else controlling your transport.
Check that the latest message still matches the listing
Listings can become old quickly. If a post was created weeks ago, confirm that the person is still looking and that the location and timing are still current before travelling.
You can change your mind. Agreement to chat or meet does not require either person to continue if the situation no longer feels right.