Feb 28, 2024| Dineships TeamDineships was created to connect fellow foodies, build connections, socialize, and have fun. We understand that meeting someone for the first time can be a little nerve wracking. If it is your first time on a Dineship, you may be wondering, “how am I supposed to act?”, “what are the to-do’s and not-to-do’s?” To ease your worries and answer your questions, we bring you: Dineships Etiquette! Below we will discuss some etiquette tips, to-do’s, and what-not-to-do’s.EtiquetteWho Pays for the Bill?It’s often assumed on a first date that one person will be the designated bill payer. This is not the case here! Dineships was created not for the purpose of dating romantically, but for meeting new people and building friendships. Splitting the bill, either down the middle, or based on what each person ordered, is the way to go. This way, no one feels obligated to pay for the whole meal and it takes the pressure off.What Do I Do When I Am Running Late?If you are running a few minutes late, make sure to communicate with your Dineship. Tell them your ETA so they can expect when to see you. If you are running more than 5-10 minutes late, of course let your dineship know, but also give them the option of rescheduling. It is important to respect the other person’s time. If you are on the other end, wait to be seated until they arrive. This way, you can greet each other outside of the restaurant and be seated together. It’s less awkward!To-Do’sRespect Personal SpacePersonal space is extremely important in making sure your dineship feels comfortable and safe. Touching or getting too close to someone you just met can be received negatively. One way to respect someone’s personal space is paying attention to nonverbal communication cues such as body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. When sitting down at a table, sit across from the person rather than directly next to them!Be Open-MindedThe Dineships app allows you to select your interests and preferences so that you can dine with people you feel you’d get along with. However, you aren’t going to hit it off with everyone you meet, that’s normal! Meeting new people, regardless of whether or not you click, allows for new conversation and new perspectives. Learning about new people is a positive thing. And when you do it through Dineships, you know everyone has a common interest.What-Not-To-Do’sGet Too TipsyConsuming too much alcohol can compromise safety for both you and your Dineship. As we know, alcohol inhibits decision making. When meeting a stranger, clear judgment is important! Getting too drunk can also create an uncomfortable environment for your Dineship. If you feel like ordering a drink, go for it! Just know your limits and stay in control.Only Talk About YourselfThe purpose of Dineships is to meet new people and build friendships. You can’t do this by only talking about yourself. Of course you want to share things about yourself, but you are also there to learn things about others. Ask your Dineship questions! They should be conversation-starters that are lighthearted and fun, not too overly personal.Just Be YourselfJust be yourself! As long as you are respectful and open-minded, you are set. For more tips and guidance, check out our “Dineships Conversation-Starters” blog for some fun examples of lighthearted questions to ask your new Dineship.