Online dating can be a wild world. On the one hand, it’s an exciting opportunity to meet a variety of people. You’ll be opened up to new things, new personalities, and maybe even a great relationship. On the other hand, it can also be full of ghosts and catfish who may not be who they say they are.
So, how can you make your experience a success?
Following today’s online dating rules can make it easier to find your perfect partner and have your happily ever after with a good dose of fun on the way!
# Be open about what you’re looking for
When it comes to finding your perfect match, research has shown that you should be upfront and honest about what you’re after.
A study found that people who used the word ‘love’ in their dating profiles were more successful in finding long-term relationships online than those who took a more casual approach to build their profiles. Be honest, and it can lead you where you want to go!
# Use photos, accurate ones
Nobody wants to look at a profile without a photo. A lack of photos may cause potential matches to wonder what are you hiding?! This is not the way to go about making a good first impression.
Use a couple of recent photos of yourself that accurately depict what you look like. We all want to look great in the photos that we post online, but don’t make your photos so unrealistic that your date gets a shock when they meet you in person. You want them to be attracted to what you really look like and the goal is to meet in person! There’s no point hiding behind inaccurate photos, it’s only a waste of both your time.
# Really get to know each otherOne of the great things about starting a relationship with online dating is that you get to work on your communication skills right off the bat. In the beginning, there’s no physical affection to cloud your mind on whether or not you get along.
Plus, if you’re looking to find The One, the time you spend chatting online can help boost your connection and heighten emotional intimacy before even meeting.
# Don’t be afraid to try new thingsMost people think they have a certain type they stick to when finding a romantic partner, be it a blonde, brunette, or boho artist!
Whatever your type, why not use online dating to step outside of your usual go-to and see who else may actually be a great fit?
You never know what kind of amazing person you’re missing out on by narrowing your search requirements. Take a chance and see what you’re missing out on.
# Choose your dating app wiselyIf you’re not selective, there can be a lot of options and distractions when dating online. That’s why it’s so important to choose your dating app wisely. Do your research and see which dating app suits what you’re looking for.
Some dating apps have a reputation for being more suited to casual dating, while others may be more likely to match you with a serious partner. Research online, speak to friends, and test them out until you find which is the best dating app for you and your preferences.
# Meet sooner rather than laterOnline dating can feel like a never-ending circle of dates that don’t lead anywhere, a time-waster that doesn’t amount to even one in-person date.
This is not uncommon in the world of online dating. A survey published by the Pew Research Center found that one-third of online daters will never meet the people they’re talking to.