Discuss the relationship Be open about how you see and what you want from the relationship so you’re both on the same page. “What are you looking to get out of this relationship?” “Are we exclusive or in an open relationship?” “Are we officially boyfriend and girlfriend or just dating?” Talk as often as possible Make contact with your partner every day (via text, email, or quick call) to show them that you are thinking about them. Checking in every day keeps the relationship a priority, even if both of you lead busy lives apart. “Hey, I know you’re busy, just wanted to say hi and hope you’re having a great day.” “Hey there, I miss you and I’m thinking about you!” “Are you free for quick 5 minute chat this afternoon?” Consider communication styles Find out whether your partner prefers texts, calls, emails, or video chat. “Would you mind me sending you a few texts while you’re at work to say hi?” “Do you prefer to speak on the phone or over video chat for longer conversations?” “I won’t have access to my phone during the day, so is it ok if I email you instead?” Discuss the little things Sharing little excerpts about your day will foster a sense of closeness and prevent having to play catch-up each time you talk. “I was grocery shopping and ended up eating half the grapes out of the bag before I checked out. I must’ve gotten that habit from you!” “I overheard this conversation that would have cracked you up…” “I saw the cutest little pug today at the park…” Set phone “dates” Schedule set times for you and your partner to talk each day for short or long conversations. You can even plan to do the same things at the same time while video-chatting to make the distance between you seem shorter. “I can call you for about 10 minutes everyday on my lunch break if that works for you?” “Can we plan for hour-long video chats on Wednesday nights?” “Want to cook and eat dinner together on video chat?” Set realistic expectations Be honest about how much time you’re willing and able to invest in communicating with your partner. “I’m really busy on Tuesday and Thursday and won’t be free to talk for more than 5 minutes, so can we schedule a longer video chat for Wednesday night?” “What are your expectations when it comes to texting, emailing, or video chat?” “I expect us to talk at least once a day for a short period and have at least one longer conversation once a week. What are your thoughts?” Keep getting to know them Ask your partner about their interests, hobbies, and daily life to get to know them on a deeper level. “What’s your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?” “Have you heard any good bands since you got there?” “What kind of movies do you like?” Learn together Taking a course or playing games together online can foster a sense of closeness. “Do you want to take an online German course together?” “Care to play a game of online chess tonight?” “Are you free to play online video games tonight?” Make plans Ask about your partner’s schedule so you can make plans to be together in person. “What does your schedule look like for next month? I have 3 days off and some airline mileage saved up… ” “How about we go to our regular ‘first-night-together-again’ spot?” “Would you like to take a trip to a place halfway between us?”