Recession dating procedure now dictates that she may not wear her Jimmy Choos, and you may not mention your hedge fund (if you still have one worth mentioning).

The great news for many singles out there is that it is being perceived as a little crude to be spending, charging, and showing off. Romance is still alive and well, you just may not find it after a night of drinking Cristal.

The theme of the moment is character, as opposed to expenditure. Talking about and spending money is considered by many as insensitive at best. So what are the single guys and gals looking for now in a prospective date? Read on for some dating tips.

Stay Positive. There is enough doom and gloom in the media without bringing it on your date. Keep the subject off the dire economy and on more entertaining and pleasant topics. Keep stories about your personal finances for a long way down the track.

She is looking for: Sense of humor. Being able to see the amusing side of things can be a great asset when everyone is moping around. No-one needs more doom and gloom than they are already seeing through the media.

No Over Spending. Of course everyone enjoys the best of everything. Perhaps, though for the moment, you may want to be a little more discreet about splashing around the money and the credit cards.

This does not make it OK to take a first date to a roach ridden back street alley, maybe just reign it in a little.

No Divas Allowed. OK, if you are after a seriously wealthy fella you may have to change your game plan. Many single men at the moment are suddenly realizing several things.

Firstly, their great career and bonuses may no longer be around. Does that mean the trophy wife will leave as well? Secondly, those who may still have plenty of cash are leery about throwing it around.

You are going to have to show that you are more than just a label driven pretty face. Maybe take some cooking lessons? Learn to appreciate the smaller things in life?

Personality. Those who are adjusting to the surrounding times are going to do better romantically. There are plenty of fun things that you can do on a date that don’t cost stacks of cash.

Use your imagination and show your date that you can be a little creative. Show your playful and adventurous side.

Split the Bill. Single women who may have been happy to let the man pay on the first couple of dates should now be offering to contribute. The man may or may not accept a contribution.

Your date will definitely appreciate the thoughtful offer. Show some consideration when eating out. It may be a great idea to not just select the most costly items on the menu.

Will she still date you if you don’t have any cash? Probably, if you have a great personality. Recession dating is a great way to meet singles on a more level dating field.

Some singles when stripped of their wealth have absolutely nothing else on offer. Other singles who you may have not noticed before could well have better personalities and emotional connections than the hot babes in the Manolo Blahniks and the guy in the Porsche.