佛周记：Dating

Bad news, singles: Dating has changed. Recent research by MixAndMatch.com shows that there are new expectations and habits for today's daters. So pay attention.

"The changes will shock you," said Dr. Ben Hernandez, dating expert at MixAndMatch.com. "These are not your grandparents' dating habits. Today's singles date by a new set of rules."

Hernandez found some surprising results in his research. Here are the top four:

1. Usually, the man still pays on the first date. But that's changing. "A lot of young women feel comfortable splitting the bill," said Hernandez.

2. It's okay to have a quick first date. "Young people say that 15 minutes is enough to decide if you like someone," Hernandez explained. "Many singles are spending their first dates at a cafe so they can easily leave if things aren't right."

3. The 1960s are over. Unlike some couples in the wilder '60s, most young couples today "are definitely willing to take the time to know each other before getting too serious," Hernandez said.

4. A phone call after the date? How old-fashioned! "These days, it's considered polite to communicate by texting," Hernandez said. Still, calling is more popular. Most women say you should wait a day after the date to get in touch, whereas men say it's okay to wait three days.

Now that you know the new rules, here are a few tips: Stay calm. Don't keep the person waiting. Open doors for women. Most important, be honest. Don't act like you had a good time if you didn't. Tell the person if you're just not interested in trying again.

If you want to know more about dating today, you can get personal advice from Hernandez. Ask him questions during our live webcast at 6 p.m. Thursday atwww.MixAndMatch.com/DatingToday. Or email him atbhernandez@mixandmatch.com.