We live in a digital era where everything is available online, including your next partner! And with 44.7 million Americans registered on online dating sites, the possibility of getting a committed partner is high. But finding the love of your life in such a vast crowd is slim, and the whole process can be overwhelming and chaotic.
Even so, it’s worth a try. Because online dating is filled with many success stories and is also lots of fun. Here’s how to put your best foot forward and make online dating work for you.
1. Be Sure You’re Ready for Dating
The end goal of dating is finding that person who completes you. But unless you’re ready to go out, have an actual date, and meet somebody new, you can’t meet that person. Ask yourself why you’re getting into online dating. Are you looking for a long-term relationship or casual dating?
You can use online personality tests to know more about yourself and the personalities that match yours. Also, being intentional about dating helps you identify the right dating site to join—one that caters to your needs and has members with similar dating goals.
2. Have an Honest and Authentic Profile
People on dating apps feel they need to portray a perfect lifestyle. They use pictures that aren’t so recent, exaggerate what they do for a living, and add a couple of inches to their height. But evidence shows that the most successful people in online dating have honest profiles.
Put some thought into your profile and let it mirror your dating goal. If you just want to have some fun, make the profile short and witty. If a long-term relationship is what you’re after, have a well-thought-out profile. Describe yourself briefly, your likes and interests, and the kind of person you want in your life.
Be brutally honest and steer clear of lies. You’ll start dating on the wrong foot and your main job will be covering up your lies. Save yourself the trouble by being honest and authentic.
3. Use Your Best Profile Photo
The thing is, you can get away with a lie or two in your profile, but a blurry profile picture taken five years ago will stop a potential date in their tracks. So, choose the best photo of yourself for the profile. A picture that shows the warm side of you and brings out your positive qualities.
A quality profile picture coupled with a good profile works like a charm. If you can afford a professional photographer, the better. But we aren’t saying you look for fast cash now to pay for expensive shots in a high-end studio. Please don’t. You may send the wrong message to a possible partner. If you don’t have the money, you can have a friend take quality shots and use one in your profile. And don’t forget to smile.
Proofread and Update Your Profile Regularly
Before you click on the “update” button, proofread. You’ve only got one chance to stand out among millions, and bad grammar or a typo can drive away your dream partner. Ensure your profile contains the right words and speaks the truth about you. Keep it spotless, and update it regularly. If you develop new hobbies, swap them with the old ones in the profile. Also, the photo you use should be as recent as possible.