Online dating can seem like a jungle – busy, loud, colourful and with hidden depths and dangers! But when you are making your journey through the complicated world of dating websites and apps, there are a few Dos and Don’ts you can follow to make sure you make it through to the other side with only minor scratches!
Do Put some Effort into your Profile
If you only do the bare minimum on your profile description and photo, there is a high likelihood your profile will get overshadowed by people who have put in the effort. Your profile is your way of putting your hook out into the water and if you’re not providing much bait, you’re a lot less likely to get a bite!
Pick a flattering photo of yourself looking friendly, happy and approachable, if you can’t find one that you like on your camera roll, then it’s time for a quick photoshoot.
And take a little time completing your profile description. Make sure that your personality and intentions are coming through but remember to keep things breezy and light. No one wants to read a dissertation on your life philosophy or what you think is wrong with the world!
Don’t Use a Catfishing Photo
It can be tempting, but it’ll only end in tears. You may have a favourite photo of yourself from a few years back, when you looked a little younger and thinner. And yes, it technically is still you, but it may cause an awkward situation when the current you shows up to the date.
Similarly, you should be careful about going overboard with the photoshopping. Remember, the ultimate goal is to meet this person in real life, so don’t set yourself up against some ridiculously perfect online version of yourself.
Do Show your Personality
Your profile message and photos are an excellent opportunity for you to display your personality and interests. So don’t go for anything too generic which doesn’t give any real idea of who you are. How are you supposed to meet your perfect match if people have nothing identifiable to match with? So, mention hobbies, interests, if you like to travel, cook, are a film buff, etc. Celebrate the best of you.
Don’t Give your Personal Details
Share your personality, but not your personal details! Be careful not to give away too much to anyone you are chatting to online. If someone seems unusually interested in pressing you for sensitive info quickly, then you should start to question their motives. Online dating is a terrific way to meet new people, but unfortunately there are some fraudsters and untrustworthy people lurking out there too.
Do Be Open Minded
Online dating can be a brutal world, with people disregarded for the most superficial of reasons. Now, we’re not saying you should be open to just about everyone. But if you like the look of a person’s profile and a few of their interests don’t match up entirely with yours – variety can be the spice of life! Be flexible in your approach, but if there are some red flags already clearly showing these shouldn’t be ignored!
Don’t Believe Everything You Read
One of the downfalls of online dating is that you don’t really know who are talking to. If someone seems just a little too good to be true, then it might be time for some online research. A quick google image search will tell you if their profile pics are their own. And if they claim to work at a senior position at a high-powered brokerage company, big companies normally have pics and profiles of their employees on their about us page.
Facebook can also be a valuable tool. Now this shouldn’t stray into the realm of stalking! Just a handy way to confirm details if you are feeling a little unsure.
Do Everything you Can to Make Sure You Are Safe
As we mentioned earlier, although many people have found their true loves online, there are some less than honest people lurking with the online dating world as well. So, guard your personal information, don’t meet anyone you feel uncertain about and arrange to meet in the daytime, in a public place with plenty of people first of all.
A coffee shop or café is a good start. If you ever feel uncertain or unsafe, end the date and head to a safe place. Don’t worry about being polite, your safety is the most important thing.
