Gay Dating Tips: 5 Pandemic-proof Pointers

Before we get to the gay dating tips, let’s take stock. COVID-19 has derailed our everyday lives. We’ve had time to think about the trajectory of our lives, and which relationships in our orbit that truly matter. 

We begin to decipher the relationships we have out of convenience versus being thorough with direction and purpose. We then strive to keep those closer “cosmic” relationships and let go of those that appear to waver. Dating during these times has given us quite a few hurdles to overcome. However, it’s shown that if something is important to you, you’ll do whatever it takes. Period. 

5 Gay Dating Tips for Lockdown

As a professional gay matchmaker, I always would tell my clients that “if you have time to pee, you have time to text someone back.” Experiencing lonely Corona blues? Here are a few ways for you to turn that pandemic frown upside down with my top gay dating tips during this tumultuous time. 

Virtually Date, and Don’t Flake

We’ve come into a phase of the world where you can give a lasting first impression from the waist up and be a little laxer in your sweat pants from the waist down. In this time, there’s no excuse to flake on your dates because most likely, your social commitments have been drastically cut or even eradicated altogether. 

First impressions will almost always count more than you know. It’s one of the most important gay dating tips I’ve told friends and clients over the years. We all find ourselves telling our friends about our exciting first date, so don’t find yourself in the “worst first date” category. 

Try to discover your favorite date shirt again that makes you feel confident, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, and spend some time studying your date’s online dating profile. 

Get Creative on Virtual Dates

In the times of virtual video dating, nothing is more unimpressive to someone than treating a date no differently than the hours of video they were just on for work. Put effort into making the virtual date fun and dig into their interests. 

Spice things up and explore interactive virtual games. Fun quizzes or even cooking dinner together work. Planning a unique evening will make your date feel special. They’ll also see you value their time if you do this. 

Eventually Meet, but Responsibly

At the end of the day, gay men are men. There is something present in our brain that must be stimulated for us to gain physical attraction to someone we are dating.

During my time as a professional cupid, I would always tell clients that one of my favorite gay dating tips is to not date a pen pal. It’s important to meet in person, and sooner rather than later. 

Make a point to go on two or three virtual dates at maximum to see if the emotional chemistry has developed. Then, make a plan to have a socially distanced picnic or walk to experience that true physical attraction test. 

Cross the Boundary of Intimacy 

Today, most people know what a gay person can go through as far as quarterly STI infection check-ups. You’re constantly “keeping tabs” on the recent interactions you’ve had with others. You have to be so careful of who you’re around and where you go with every new interaction. 

If a new pair sets that precedent together, it shows a sign of ultimate respect and progression. I believe sexual intimacy can be negotiable and very exploratory. I also believe in the power of exploring that dynamic, safely and honestly.

Don’t Be Afraid of Expedited Exclusivity

Because things are restricted nowadays, after a certain physical boundary has been crossed, it’s imperative to honor each other’s safety and have “the talk” much sooner. You’ve probably seen gay dating tips talk about taking things too fast. Well here’s your opportunity to seem sensible rather than fanatically excited. 

In pre-COVID times I’d strongly suggest dating someone for three months before having this type of conversation. However, I would be understanding about expediting this timeline to one month or so given the current circumstances.

In these unpredictable times, single people have a choice to navigate life’s obstacle course and give up, or see it as an opportunity for growth.

One of the most inspiring stories I heard during my career was from a client who was so impressed by a guy’s communication. My client was a heavy traveler, but he still made sure to tell this guy he liked spending time together. He would be proactive in setting up the next date right away. He was ready for love, and his date recognized that. 

At the end of the day, another one of my best gay dating tips is to be direct. This style will always be sexy to someone who’s used to dating in the wishy-washy grey area. After all, you’ve got nothing to lose!

About the author: Mason R. Glenn

Mason R. Glenn has had a long career in the matchmaking industry and has spent his time helping high-caliber clientele in Los Angeles select eligible matches. Currently, Mason is an acclaimed published author and is in the process of strengthening his career in content and brand strategy. His latest book, "Getting Ahead of the Gayme: Man First, Gay Second," can be purchased through Amazon, iBooks, or Google Play, and is available at select major book retailers in the U.S.

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