The world of dating has certainly seen its fair share of changes over the past few decades, but few can compare to the changes brought about by technology. As the internet was born and then blossomed, a new way of connecting with people was born, and thus it sparked the beginning of online dating. Today, online dating is not only a great way to meet new people, but many couples end up finding their “perfect” match and go on to live a very happy life together.
If you’re new to the online dating scene and you want to be sure you get the absolute most out of the experience, there are some tips and advice you can use. The goal is obviously to find that person you connect with, but at the same time, you want to do so in a way that keeps your own safety, needs, and wants as a top priority. So, here’s a look at some of the top tips for those looking to enter into the online dating arena for the first time.
Don’t Expect to Get it Right the First Time
While it would be great to think that online dating will help you weed through potential matches faster and find that “perfect” person, the fact is, you will still likely have to go on a number of dates with different people in order to get it right.
It’s important not to see this as a negative though, as it’s always great to meet to new people, learn something from the experience, and carry that forward with you. Going on dates can also help you to become more confident, comfortable, and sure of what you want in a partner. So, rather than allowing yourself to get bummed out that it didn’t work the first time, look at it as a learning experience and move on.
Find the Right Site
Another tip is to take your time checking out the various online dating websites and apps and find the one that matches with your needs, lifestyle, and preferences. When you do this, you are more likely to find potential matches that have similarities to you. You may even want to create a profile on more than just one site, so you can really branch out.
Make Sure Your Profile is Well Written
No matter what site you end up choosing in the end, it’s imperative you take the time to write a well thought out profile. Your profile should be clear, free of errors, convey some of your personality, and should be witty in order to catch someone’s attention. It doesn’t have to be particularly long. In fact, most people aren’t even going to take the time to read through a long profile.
If you find yourself having a tough time writing your profile, you can always ask for a friend or family member’s input. Sometimes it can be easier when you ask for outside help as they can shed new light on things.
Post Current Pictures
When it comes to posting pictures, one of the worst moves you can make is to post old and out-of-date photos. This is frowned upon in the online dating world, and probably something you wouldn’t want someone to do to you. If you don’t have any recent pictures, have a friend snap a few that you can use. As far as the content of the photos go, make sure it’s a photo you feel comfortable sharing with your grandma.
Chat with Multiple People at Once
Once you are set up with a profile and you are ready to start checking out others, it’s a good idea to be open to multiple suitors at once. What that means is don’t be afraid to chat with a few people at once and get to know them. You can even date a few at once, as it’s not always easy to tell who may be that perfect match just by chatting online.
Make Use of the Search Tools
If the online dating site you use offers a search tool, then this is something you really want to take advantage of. If it will allow you to specify such things as location, age range, interests, what kind of relationship the person is looking for, etc., it will help you narrow down the options much faster and easier.
There is No Need to Rush to Meet in Person
It’s also important you don’t feel any pressure to hurry and meet someone in person. There is absolutely nothing wrong with chatting online for a while, perhaps trading phone numbers so you can exchange texts and phone calls, and then only when you feel comfortable you can arrange to meet in person.
For that first meet-up safety should be a top priority. Unfortunately, you just never know who that person may end up being, so playing it safe is wise. Arrange to meet in a public place and arrive and leave on your own. Maybe you want to meet at a local cafe, perhaps a book store, a restaurant, or some other public place. Pick something that allows you both to sit down, relax, and chat but with others around.
Approach Each Person with a Positive Attitude
While it can get frustrating trying to find that right match, it’s important you don’t take that frustration into new relationships. When you meet someone new and start chatting with them, approach it as a clean slate and with a positive attitude. Each experience will be its own unique thing, which means you can go into it without judgments and expectations.
Embracing Online Dating Isn’t So Hard After All
Sure, online dating can seem intimidating to those who have never taken the route before but dating in general is intimidating and scary. By approaching it with an open mind, a positive attitude, and taking a few precautions, the experience can end up being wonderful and may even help you to find that perfect partner that you’ve been dreaming about.
