Everyone wants to have a love story straight out of a movie. This means having a magical first encounter—gazing into each other’s eyes, falling in love, and even hearing wedding bells right there and then. Sadly, not everyone is lucky enough to have the best meet-cute.
Nowadays, singles mostly look for love at first swipe. Instead of relying on meeting potential partners through organic meetup places, more and more use dating apps.
Statistics reveal that online dating platforms are expected to have reached 413 million active users worldwide by 2022. A Stanford University study also shows that dating apps are now the number one way couples meet.1,2
This may give you hope, but it doesn’t change the fact that online dating can be frustrating. To help you find your partner online, keep these online dating tips in mind.
1. Know What You’re Looking For
Dating app users have different purposes. So before you make a profile, determine why you want to be on the app.
For example, decide whether you’re interested in casual dating, hookups, or a committed relationship. This will help you match with people who align with your dating goals.
2. Make a Dating Profile That Stands Out
With so many users, you may find dating online quite competitive. This is why you have to make a well-tailored profile.
Customize your profile to showcase who you are and captivate the people you want to attract. This includes writing a more thoughtful bio if you’re interested in building a deeper connection with someone. On the other hand, create a short yet witty bio if you’re looking for fun.
Don’t forget to add eye-catching photos that clearly show your face. Also, try incorporating your interests and hobbies into your photos.
3. Don’t Be Boring
The getting-to-know-you phase can be exhausting, so sending a simple “Hi” when messaging someone for the first time might be tempting. Try not to do this and make the conversation engaging.
Ask or comment about something interesting that you’ve read on their profile. If you don’t know what to say, use conversation prompts available on the app.
4. Be Consistent
If you’re serious about making fruitful connections, make time for regular interactions. Send out messages during high-activity times, like after work hours, to increase your chances of getting a reply.
Also, don’t wait for people to make the first move. According to OkCupid, women under 30 sent 28.5% more first messages in January 2021 than in the previous year. Doing so has helped them feel more in control of their dating lives during the pandemic.3
5. Give People a Chance
Some have a mental checklist with long lists of qualities they want their partner to have. Unfortunately, that’s unrealistic. Having this expectation means setting yourself up for disappointment.
Don’t overcomplicate things. Instead of looking for the Perfect Partner who ticks off all of the boxes on your checklist, try leaving room for someone who can offer you something you didn’t know you needed.
6. Don’t Try So Hard for People to Like You
Not everyone will like you. You also won’t probably click with all of your matches. Remember that that’s totally okay and normal, so don’t take it personally if they don’t message back.
Don’t waste your time and energy on people who aren’t interested in you. If they don’t make an effort to reach out, move on.
7. Prioritize Your Safety
Online dating can be fun and exciting. However, just like anything in life, it comes with risks.
Although dating apps can give you a chance to meet your next partner, they contain fake accounts. That said, some of the dangers of online dating include getting catfished and sexually assaulted.
Another big problem surrounding online dating is romance scams. In 2021 alone, the Federal Trade Commission found that people reported losing $547 million to romance scammers.
To have a safe online dating experience, be careful of suspicious users. Block people who ask for financial assistance or send offensive messages. Additionally, never give your personal information to people who haven’t met yet.
8. Be Transparent
Telling fake, grandiose stories can make you stand out. But keep in mind that doing so will make you a fraudster and put you in trouble.
As much as you want people to like you, don’t lie. Get people to know the real you. Being authentic is key to making genuine connections.
Another way to be transparent is to say your intention upfront. This will save you and others time and avoid causing unnecessary drama.
9. Be Open to Meeting Up
Avoid getting stuck in an endless back-and-forth with someone you’re interested in. After all, you’re not on the dating app to find a pen pal. Dr. Catherine Coccia, an assistant professor at Florida International University, says, “Sometimes it feels ‘safe’ behind our screens, but it’s important to interact in real-time to really get to know people and forge strong relationships.”
For this reason, be open to meeting up as soon as you feel comfortable. According to dating coach Hayley Quinn, 1-2 weeks is the optimum time for taking an online dating connection into the real world.
Before meeting up for the first time, stay cautious no matter how emotionally invested you are. Check your date’s social media accounts and make sure you’re meeting in public.
10. Stay Patient
Finding a potential partner online can be complicated and lonely. Many find themselves trapped in the cycle of meeting people, getting ghosted, or being stuck in the talking stage.
The search can take time, but be patient, stay positive, and trust the process. You’re not alone in the struggle of putting yourself out there, so don’t beat yourself up.
In addition, you’re allowed to take a break from the dating scene, so do that if you feel exhausted. Dating should be fun, after all. You can always come back when you’re ready to date again.
In Short
I hope you enjoyed our 10 online dating tips
Finding your next fling, hookup, or lasting love is easier now than ever, thanks to dating apps. While these platforms give you instant access to connect with more people, the process leading to dating itself can be tricky. Thankfully, with these online dating tips, you have greater chances of having a successful online dating experience.
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