The world of dating has changed so much in the last decade.
Online dating used to be mysterious and not a commonly used practice. But with the advancement of technology, Smart Phones, and circumstances such as the COVID-19 Pandemic, much has changed on the dating scene! The question that arises is, what are some dos and don’ts of online dating? We are here to give you 5 tips for online dating.
1. Your Profile Pictures
DO: Take a picture that is nice, clear, and preferably smiling.
Much like in the real world of dating, much can be seen by looking at a person. How they hold themselves, their body language, and posture. With online dating, a little bit of that is lost since everything is done digitally. But that can be changed with a picture! You know what they say “A picture is worth a thousand words!” By no means does this have to be a professional headshot. But rather one that is clear, easy to see, and preferably smiling. This makes a great first impression and can make your profile (and yourself) approachable.
DON’T: Don’t set a picture that is not you, is blurry/heavily filtered or, no picture at all. A bad picture or one that is nonexistent can make potential matches overlook you. If you are looking for a partner to be by your side for the rest of your life, they will appreciate seeing what you truly look like.
2. Know Yourself and Make Sure of What You Want/Are Looking For
DO: Do be sure to have a good idea of what you are looking for! Are you looking for a partner to go to the gym and a morning run together? Or perhaps you are the type that wants to travel and see the world? Whatever it may be, be sure to do some soul searching to find out what you are really looking for in a mate. The more you know, the better you can find what you are looking for.
DON’T: Don’t go unprepared! Knowing what you are looking for can also reduce the chance of heartbreak and time better spent on a better-suited partner. Knowing what you want is the first step to achieving the relationship you want.
3. Make Your Dating Profile Honest, Up-Front, But Kind
DO: Much like you are looking for a partner with similar interests and passions, so are others. The easiest and best way to clearly get your wants and what is important to you in the spotlight, it is in your dating profile. Letting others know what your expectations and end goals are, can be very helpful for a potential partner and let them know whether to message you or not.
DON’T: Don’t mislead or write information that is unclear in your profile. Not only does what you write impact you, but it can impact the person that your profile attracts. Do not put goals or ambitions that you do not truly want in hopes that it will attract someone either. Remember to be honest and be yourself. The right person will fall in love with the real you, not something that is an “in the moment” idea of you.
4. Message Politely
DO: When the time comes, and you feel you have found someone that is compatible with you, be sure to, message them! When you do, it is important to be polite. Though your profile and image are the first impressions, what you say in a message will impress upon them what kind of person you are and how you carry yourself. Much like a conversation face to face, how things go can determine what happens next. Be sure not to use foul language and be kind.
DON’T: Do not be rude and message every person in hopes to get one person to talk to you. Do not use foul language or be hurtful/mean or forceful. First impressions are important. Do not also paint a picture of yourself that is untrue just to get attention from a person. A front can only last so long. You and your potential mate will benefit from being honest.
5. Meeting Up
DO: When the time is right, and you feel that you and the possible person you have been talking to are ready, it is time to meet up and meet face to face! It is best to pick a place that is populated and that has an easy atmosphere for conversation. Getting to know someone face to face can tell you much about a person. Body language, their tone of voice, and many other things can say a lot. But the most important part of meeting someone in person is knowing that you feel safe and most of all are ready.
DON’T: Do not feel that you HAVE to meet someone if you feel insecure. If you are not ready or you do not feel 100% secure in meeting with this person yet, take your time! It is better to wait than it is to feel uncomfortable when you meet them at first. If they are truly interested in you, they will respect your feelings and be sure to accommodate. Do not meet with a person because they pressure you, or make you feel that if you don’t they will be gone. This is an important choice that could lead to a lifelong decision. Take your time and trust your gut.
Dating online is the new normal anymore, and with tips to help, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Be sure to be safe and best of luck in finding your one true love!
