Do's and Don'ts

When looking for an agency, it's useful to have a list of do's and don'ts to avoid making mistakes

When joining an Introduction Agency or Marriage Bureau...

Always check that they are a member of the ABIA. Only ABIA agencies are bound to comply with their stringent code of practice.
Ask how many introductions you can reasonably expect to be given within your selected age range and area.
Use your membership sensibly. You must communicate with your agency to maximise your chances of enjoying a successful membership.
Persevere with your membership - success doesn't always happen overnight. If you are unhappy about the way things are going, tell the agency as soon as possible to give them a chance to rectify the situation.

Join an agency using a PO Box number.
Join an agency using a premium rate telephone number.
Join an agency which is not prepared to give you details of their fees on the phone or in their literature.
Part with any membership fee without having been given the opportunity to visit the agency.

Be sensible - meet up for a quick drink or cup of coffee rather than commit yourself to spending a whole evening with someone who may not be your ideal partner.
Be positive about yourself - a bright, cheerful attitude to life is much more appealing than a negative one.
Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. Be polite if you decide you don't want to meet up again. It's much nicer to say 'I've had a really nice evening but feel that we're not suited for a long term relationship' than to promise you'll ring and have no intention of doing so.
Be yourself - don't pretend to be something you're not!

Talk endlessly about your failed relationships - it can be off-putting!
Drink too much or constantly run yourself down.
Take the children along on the first date.
Visit anyone without being invited.
Feel pressurised into starting a physical relationship before you feel the time is right