The Dos and Donts of Using Free Online Dating Sites
Dating is a complicated beast that requires both courage and a sense of adventure. With the advent of free online dating sites, it can be tempting to jump right in, but it’s important to remember that not all of these services are created equal. Here are a few dos and don’ts to help you navigate the waters of the ever-changing world of online dating.
Dos
Do be honest. Honesty is always the best policy in life, and it applies tenfold when it comes to online dating. Be honest in your profile about who you are and what you’re looking for. Lying about even the smallest thing doesn’t just set a bad precedent for the rest of your interactions, it also says a lot about your character.
Do be proactive. Don’t be afraid to make the first move or initiate a conversation. Online dating isn’t like traditional dating, where you rely on chance meetings to find someone compatible. Taking the initiative shows you’re invested in finding the right person and it gives potential partners an idea of your personality.
Do take the initiative with your safety. Dating should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful or anxiety-inducing one. Before meeting someone in person, do a bit of vetting by researching them and occasionally Google-stalking them. It’s also worthwhile to invest in a reliable security app that can alert your friends and family when you meet up with someone unfamiliar.
Do give it time. It might take more than a few swipes or messages to find your perfect match, but that’s perfectly okay. Online dating isn’t a race. Don’t get caught up in the numbers game and try to have conversations with as many people as possible. Take it slow, enjoy the process, and don’t forget to keep your expectations in check.
Do remember to ask questions. A great conversation is the key to online dating success and it starts with asking questions. An interesting, witty, or creative question can grab a person’s attention and start a conversation that could ultimately lead to love.
Don’ts
Don’t get discouraged. Talking to a stranger online can be intimidating and daunting. Don’t let it get to you and don’t get discouraged if your first messages don’t get replies. Remember, chatroom on the other end of the conversation might not be ready to reply or has already made up their mind.
Don’t share too much of your personal information. The internet can be filled with creeps, scammers, and hackers so it’s best to remain vigilant. Don’t share too much on your online dating profile and don’t give away personal information such as your home address or financial information to anyone you haven’t met in person yet.
Don’t plan the future. It can be tempting to jump to conclusions and make wild assumptions about the future, especially after a few great conversations, but don’t do it. Take things one step at a time and let things happen naturally. There's no need to start planning a wedding after a few dates!
Don’t be cocky. It’s no secret that confidence is attractive, but being too full of yourself is an instant turnoff. Trying too hard to impress someone with boasts and tall tales always backfires. Guaranteed. Besides, you’ll end up attracting the wrong kind of people with an attitude like that.
Don’t be discouraged by rejection. Rejection sucks and it can be hard to take it gracefully when you’re feeling vulnerable, but it’s essential to remain composed. Don’t take it personally--you’re just not the right fit for this particular person. Instead, move on and keep looking for your perfect match.
Online dating is full of highs and lows, and it’s up to you to make it a positive experience. A little bit of respect and consideration paints a picture of someone mature and trustworthy. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun. After all, the best things in life are free!