Before meeting a new person, I try to learn as much as possible about them. This does not mean that I am conducting an investigation, but I am trying to find out a few important points. First of all, it is important for me to understand what our common interests and hobbies are. This helps to find common ground and topics for conversation so that our meeting does not turn into an awkward silence.
I also try to learn about a person's values and views on life.
Another important point is online communication before the meeting. Correspondence can give an idea of a person's manner of communication, his sense of humor and general character traits. If I feel comfortable and easy in this communication, then the probability of a successful meeting increases significantly.
It is equally important to find out how serious a person is. Honest discussion of goals and expectations at the initial stage helps to avoid unnecessary disagreements and waste of time.
The first meeting is still an important moment when you can get to know a person even better. But a preliminary acquaintance allows me to feel more confident and calmer, as well as reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises. It is important to remember that the basis of any relationship is trust and mutual respect, so it is better to spend a little time getting to know a person better before taking the next step.