I’m definitely not an advocate for guys rating women on the one-to-ten scale, but somehow i ended up at the site Hot or Not, which someone (probably tevaburns) posted Jomo’s photo on (he got a 9 point something) back in like 2001 or something. I find the site kind of funny and sad at the same time… degrading, yet people do it to themselves.

So, for the masses, here are the unspoken guidelines to posting your photo on Hot or Not. All of the examples below are real people (no offense to any of you- this is the risk you run putting your photo on the www).

1. NUMBER ONE RULE: For all things good in the world, keep your clothes ON for the photo.

2. Do not take your photo with your legs spread apart. It’s too early in the relationship for that, really.

3. Am I voting on you? Or your hobbies?

4. Be sure to look mysterious. But don’t make it look like you’re having a hard time on the crapper. There IS a line, folks.

5. Always wear an amusing t-shirt. Or some fetching earrings.

6. On the flip side, you could pretend to be modest.

7. A sure-fire bet: sport a goth cameltoe.

8. Make yourself look HUGE.

9. Don’t be afraid to show your silly side.

10. Lastly, be sure to pose with your best friend.