Hopefully this is not your typical instant messaging conversation:

2:23 (MaRy$un$) “You around BigK?”
2:23 (BigKahuna) “Hey there, thanks for adding me to your contact list”
2:23 (MaRy$un$) “No problem, I just got in from the gym. How’s your day going?”
2:24 (BigKahuna) “It’s going well – I’m just finishing up some work and going to shoot some hoops with a buddy. What are you doing today?”
2:27 (BigKahuna) “I think we’re going to check out Robson Park – looks like some good courts there. Ever played?”
2:36 (BigKahuna) “Hello?
2:37 (BigKahuna) “Mary??”
3:18 (BigKahuna) “Have you fallen and can't get up?”

Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the world of instant messaging conversations where all the rules of polite society are trampled in the name of progress. It can be hard to feel that chatting over a computer is a real experience for you and for other people, but it is. Everyone’s time is important. We’re all guilty of leaving our friends hanging while we let the dog in, grab a bite to eat or take a brisk stroll around the block, but when it comes to dating, you really have to pay more attention!

Be there and be aware: Delayed responses are rude. It says you’re not as interested in the conversation as you are in something else, like another conversation in another window with some other person you’re trying to date. People pick up on poor manners.

Spell it out for them: If your spelling isn’t top notch, open up a program that can check for mistakes and copy and paste the text into your messaging window. It’s better to appear to be putting effort into a conversation than to have the person on the other end struggling to figure out which language you’re trying to speak.

Flip the switch: If you have to leave your computer, make sure to give them an approximate time you’ll be away so that they can do things besides sit and wait for your return. It’s always a good idea to use “away” or “be right back” signs to make this point.

Use question marks: Look at what you’re writing. If you don’t see many question marks, you’re not having a two way conversation. This is like showing up for a date and talking about whatever you want to talk about and nothing else. Questions show interest and your new friend will appreciate it.

Foul! Excessive winking. Time out: Emoticons, those cute little symbols that say so much without saying anything at all, can be the death of you. This goes for the use of “lol” or any other short form. They’re great to add a little punch to a conversation but just don’t use them as a crutch. Moderation will save your day.

Damn, I didn’t look at the time: Keep an eye on what time it is when you contact someone. You might see them online during the day but they could be at work and not have a lot of time to chat. Ask them if another time would be better if you're not sure. That way you won’t end up interpreting short, delayed answers as a lack of interest.

Instant messaging manners are essential to moving a relationship forward. It can be tough trying to make a good impression but follow these simple suggestions and you’ll be securing that coffee date in no time.