Virtual dates are a great way to get to know someone while practicing social distancing, but not every virtual date is going to be amazing. That’s okay!

Trust your instinct on a virtual date. If you’re not feeling a spark and you’re unmotivated to keep the conversation going or schedule a second chat, pay attention to that feeling and move on. In the end, it’s more kind than leading someone on when you know it’s not going anywhere.

When you’re on a virtual date and you know you want to end it, my advice is to be honest and friendly. It’s more important than ever to be kind to each other right now. Keep it simple and keep it honest. For example, you could say, “Listen, it’s been great to speak to you, but I do need to go and deal with a few things around the house now,” or, “I can’t really talk much longer but I appreciate speaking to you.” Whatever your exit strategy, make sure you incorporate kindness and appreciation for the chat. Now is not the time to ghost someone—we already feel alone and isolated.    

Having said that, it is absolutely fine to hang up on someone who is being inappropriate or making you feel uncomfortable. It’s also fine to block that person. There is no need to people please in situations where you are being harassed or made to feel uncomfortable. 

For more information on how to end a bad virtual date, check out this Bustle article Laurie Berzack was quoted in.