The Keys to Survival

Tips for surviving a dating/matchmaking service:

* Make sure the place is licensed and legal--check with the Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau.

* Find out how long the operation has been in business in that city.

* Get everything in writing, get as much detailed information as possible and read the small print.

* Spend at least an hour at the agency. Get a feel for the place and the people. If it feels shady or too pushy, leave. Go with your gut.

* Know the cancellation policy. Find out what happens if you move out of the area.

* California law mandates that you have three days after you join in which to obtain a refund.

* Give yourself time to make the decision. Don’t let yourself be pressured to join on the spot.

* Be honest with yourself and the service about your expectations.

* Don’t answer any questions you think are inappropriate (such as about your sex life).

* Be suspicious of any service that claims to provide background checks on its clients--a countrywide check could cost thousands of dollars and take weeks or months. “They would almost have to hire a private investigator, and I doubt that anyone would do this,” says Kathy Almanzar, senior trade practices consultant with the Better Business Bureau.

* Ask if they have had any other offices that closed, or if they have operated under any other name.

* Ask for references or testimonials from people who have been through the service.

* Ask for the statistics of clientele--ratio of women to men, and their ages.

* Report any problems to the Better Business Bureau.