24 secrets of successful daters

"Some Black women are looking for more flash than class. It is not how a man looks but how he treats you and handles his responsibilities that matters. Ask yourself: How does he interact with his family? Does he pay his traffic tickets? Is he reliable? -- Dr. Paulette D. Murphy, New York City psychologist and dating coach

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"A woman's walk is everything and speaks volumes about her confidence. It's body language from head to toe. Stand tall and take your time across the room." -- Jermichael Pratt, Detroit personal trainer

Bing: Walk with confidence

After meeting Allante Samuels in high school, Ashley Starks realized she had a lot to learn about love. "Growing up as an only child, it was always about me," she says. "But in a relationship, it's a partnership." Ashley had to adjust to considering someone else's feelings and schedule to strengthen their four-year relationship.

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"When communicating online, use a couple of easy "ice breakers" to get the conversation flowing. Even just asking how their day is going can be a great way to get things started." -- Louise Thompson, relationship expert at badoo.com

Bing: How to open a conversation

"When the guys in my shop are looking for a wife, they meet them at parks, libraries and the museum - places where people are not getting intoxicated to have a good time." -- Abram Pitts, Detroit barber

We spotted this couple while they enjoyed an adventurous day that included hanging in downtown Detroit and listening to an impromptu outdoor karaoke set. "We love spending time together and indulge each others' interest," Andrea Phillpotts says. "He even watches the 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' with me."

"Definitely surround yourself with un-hater friends. Find friends that may be in situations that you like such as a married friend. Sometimes when you surround yourself around people who are in the same situation, it makes you stay in that situation." -- Jamie Anderson, Atlanta bridal consultant

"Just because a guy might be going through financial difficulty doesn't mean he's always going to be like that. Give him the chance for you all to have something successful. If a guy really likes a woman and she doesn't have a great job, he can still enjoy being with her. " -- Abram Pitts, Detroit barber

"An eye conversation goes a long way. If you make eye contact more than three times, that shows your interest to a guy. If he's looking as well, feel free to approach him and offer a compliment. We appreciate that. " -- Jigga Simmons, Atlanta barber

"Just like in the real world, meeting people online should be fun, not a chore. Even if you're looking for Mr. Right, don't fixate on it. Mix it up a little and spend some time chatting with a range of people, even as friends. And a new friend might be the one to introduce you to your soul mate. And friendly people are always more attractive! -- Louise Thompson, relationship expert at badoo.com