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My friend Evan, a recent Indiana University graduate told me it's important to make sure his new girlfriend's friends like him so they're on his side.

"If a girlfriend's friends don't like me, then it's going to be more difficult for her to keep seeing me," he said. "They would probably convince her to get out of the relationship if we ever got in a fight."

Once your new partner suggests meeting the friends, it's a sure sign that things in the relationship are going well and your lover is ready to take the next step. While meeting the friends may be an exciting time in a new relationship, it can also bring forth a slew of pressures.

According to , doing a little research before you meet the friends can be beneficial. Find out what his/her friends already know about you or the relationship to avoid any misunderstandings during the initial meeting. It's also important not to get too personal with stories about your new lover and save the PDA for later. After the meeting, remain respectful to his/her friends-don't trash talk anyone or your best behavior could go down the drain.

At , it's important to make a good impression with your girlfriend's group of girls because you don't want any of them telling her she could do better. The site suggests asking questions to find out what her friends like and remembering how important these friendships are to her.

Recently, I introduced my new crush to my best girlfriend. He was polite and talked to her, but later he told me he thought she was rude and hard to talk to. I have to stick up for my friends, so I gave him the boot.

Since my first boyfriend nearly seven years ago, I've always heard that if there's not someone at home hoping to see you again, then you probably won't be going back. Since then, I've created my own list of rules to follow when meeting the friends.

1. Be courteous. Always offer to get his/her friends a drink, a snack, a seat, etc. Don't forget to treat your new love good, too; friends will be watching to see how you treat him/her.

2. Make conversation. Now is not the time to tap into your silent side. Of course, you don't want to be annoying, either. Chances are you might feel a little left out since you're meeting new people, but tell stories or ask questions to spur conversation.

3. Show interest. Ask questions and find out what his/her friends are into. Give sincere compliments. If you show interest in them, they will be interested in you. Show some interest in your crush, too. People like people who love their friends, so show it!

4. Sell yourself. Be confident in yourself and what you have to offer in this relationship. Share you interests and strengths with his/her friends. They'll be impressed with your strengths.

5. Seal the deal. Say thanks, it was nice to meet you, hope to see you soon! Leaving on a good note will mark a good impression and hopefully, you really will be seeing them soon.

New relationships are meant to be fun, so don't let a simple meeting stress you out. Impress the friends and enjoy the benefits of what comes afterward.