Crucial tips for dating success

I'm good with social networking or meeting people Ñ my problem is not knowing the "old-fashioned" stuff, like what not to say or do on a first date. What are the biggest no-nos?

W.C., Michigan

Today's technology does make getting together easier, but staying together has less to do with apps and more to do with applying some old-school common sense.

Use my top tips to keep your first date from being your last:

Phone first.

Getting a sense of someone's conversation skills from his or her networking page or online profile can be difficult.

KISS.

That is, Keep It Short and Simple. Plan a first date to last one hour. If it's awful, there's an end in sight. If it's awesome, schedule another date right away.

Avoid conversation killers.

Ex-bashing, rapid-fire questioning and discussing hot-button topics like religion or politics are turnoffs. Instead, ask questions that may tell you whether this person is honest, respectful and able to make someone else a priority. Perhaps ask about someone he or she admires.

Think friendship first.

Seek out qualities you look for in a friend. If those are there but the attraction isn't, maybe your new pal can fix you up with other great people!