Online dating is now more popular than ever with more and more
singles from all over the world choosing to search for love on
the Internet. Dating online is a fun, effective way to meet new
people, make friends and form new relationships. If you're new
to the concept, though, the experience can be a bit daunting at
first. This online dating tutorial will help you get the most
out of dating online.
1. Be comfortable with your decision
Like lonely hearts ads and introduction agencies, cyberdating
used to be thought of as a last resort, but that is no longer
the case. Internet dating offers singles freedom from
traditional restrictions such as distance and allows even busy
professionals and single parents the chance to socialise and
find love. Another great advantage of online dating is the fact
that it offers the chance to know more about a person before you
meet them and make a more informed choice about who you would
like to date.
2. Find the site that's right for you
There are literally thousands of dating sites out there, each
catering for different people and their needs. Take your time
and check out a few sites before committing to spending any
money. Some sites are free to use and many
sites offer a free
trial, where you can search for singles in your area without
paying any money up front. If a site isn't quite what you hoped
for, try another one. There are millions of people on the Net
and plenty of places for them to meet. Keep trying and you will
find the right place for you. 3. Be clear about what you want
Dating (both on and offline) means different things to different
people. Some people are looking for a serious relationship,
while some just want to chat, date or have casual relations.
It's important to be honest with yourself about what you're
looking to gain from the online dating experience, even if
you're just looking to try it out and have some fun. There are
sites that cater for all forms of dating and some that are
geared towards particular requirements. Being honest with
yourself will help you make the right choice and avoid
disappointment. When it's time to put your profile up on the
site, being honest about your intentions will also help you
attract likeminded people.
4. Put up a good profile
Like all first impressions, your profile or personal page on a
dating site is extremely important. A good profile should be an
accurate representation of who you are. It should
also be geared
towards making people want to get to know you. Never put
yourself down, especially when it comes to your looks. There is
a difference between being honest and realistic and letting your
insecurities take over. Self promotion is not an easy task for
most people, but it's important to remember that there is
nothing wrong with being aware of your finer qualities.
Concentrate on things you like about yourself, your interests,
your dreams and anything else that sounds positive. If you're
stuck, get your friends and family to tell you what they like
about you and include that information in your description.
5. Upload your picture
Looks aren't everything, but surveys have shown that most online
daters do prefer to contact people who have pictures on their
profiles. Don't be afraid to upload a photo: a picture can make
all the difference when someone is deciding whether to contact
you or not. Even if you are unhappy with your looks, chances are
there is someone out there who will find you attractive. Let him
or her decide without adding apologetic comments about your
looks underneath the picture. If at all possible, choose a
picture where you are smiling and looking happy to add to the
positive feel of the
profile.
6. Don't be afraid to contact people
If you joined a site to meet people, don't be afraid of
contacting others. After all, they are also on the site for much
the same reason. If you like somebody's profile - get in touch
and let them know; you never know what might happen.
7. Treat people the way you would like to be treated
The novelty of online dating can sometimes make people forget
there are actual human beings on the other side of the computer.
Always be respectful of people's feelings, even if it turns out
you and the other person are unsuitable for each other.
8. Good timing
The beauty of cyber dating is that you can afford to take your
time before meeting people in person. It's good to get to know
people online first, but if you feel the right moment has come
to take things further - don't be afraid of suggesting that. If
you do, though, don't take it personally if the other person is
not ready yet. Let them take their time.
9. Be safe
When dating (both on and off line) always use common sense.
While the majority of people have honest intentions, it pays to
be careful. Beware of people asking for money straight away, or
those starting
your online relationship by detailing a story of
woes and asking for your help. It is advisable to never lend or
give money to people you have only just met online.
When agreeing to meet people you met online, always meet in a
public place and let friends or family know where you are if
possible. It's perfectly acceptable to ask to bring a friend
with you to your first meeting. Make a point of explaining that
it's nothing personal and be wary of people who try to pressure
you into meeting them alone. Remember: It's advisable to get to
know people online and on the phone first before going to meet
them in person.
10. Don't give up
There are millions of people dating online at any given time and
chances are that if you persist, you will find the person who is
right for you. Don't take rejection too seriously and keep
trying. If one site is not working out for you, it may be worth
trying another one and seeing if you have better luck there. If
you follow the tips detailed below, you will be in a very good
position to find what you are looking for online.
About the author:
Suzy Allen works for Loopylove.com - the UK's first
free online dating site
