Online dating or internet dating has grown in popularity over the years especially with the influx of matchmaking services. Online dating occurs when individuals, couples and groups make contact and communicate with each other over the Internet, usually with the objective of developing a personal romantic or sexual relationship. Online dating services facilitate the communication through dedicated websites allowing persons to register, indicating their interests in establishing relationships with others. Usually matchmaking activities are unmoderated although most providers guarantee background checks of their members.
Online dating services generally stipulate membership prerequisites to prospective members and verification of same, before they are allowed access to the service provider’s database. Once access is gained, members search for prospective partners using criteria, such as age, gender and location among others.
Online dating sites may offer additional services attracting additional fees; services include webcasts, online chat, telephone chat, and message boards. A general registration fee may also be required as well as a monthly fee.
Things You Will Need
- Internet access
- Personal computer
- Your personal info at hand
- Payment options (credit card, PayPal etc.)
Instructions
- Browse the web and indentify a selection of online dating service providers/websites.
- From your selection, do a quantified background check of the provider and adequate research of their services to determine:
- Legitimacy
- Ability to meet your requirements – e.g. target group
- Confidentiality and safety track record
- Once you are satisfied with your research select an online dating service and proceed to follow registration instructions.
- After completion of the registration process, you can proceed to setup your personal profile.
- Ensure that information provided on your profile is interesting but genuine and accurate to avoid misleading prospective candidates; do not include information that may jeopardize your safety.
- Once you are satisfied with your profile, begin your exploration of the site to search for individuals that fit your set criteria.
- In your online interactions be clear and concise, ask questions and keep the momentum, be friendly, polite and positive.
- Activity is key! Check your messages frequently and utilize the additional services offered by the provider.
Do
- Utilize reputable services such as Directoryofdating.com which offer reviews of online dating sites to help in your decision of the right service provider
- Take advantage of trial free services if offered by selected provider
- Always try to respond to messages from interested parties – be direct in your replies to avoid any misinterpretation of intent or otherwise
- Include a picture in your profile
Don’t
- The critical note to online dating is to keep safe. Always exercise caution in your interactions. Do not give out unnecessary information or too much information
- Do not intentionally mislead others
- Avoid negativity
- If you decide to have a face-to-face meeting, ensure this is done in a public setting
