Friday, February 20, 2009

Tips for Using Online Dating Services

If you're new to online dating services, here are some tips to help you along.

When using an online dating service, don't get discouraged. Sometimes it takes time for people to respond. If you are interested, then probably others are too. On average women receive from 50 to 200 responses. Give the person time to respond and be patient.

When using an online dating service, use a net instead of a fishing pole. It is better to send messages to several people instead of just to one. You will increase your chances. Don't be overly selective. Just like in traditional dating, there can be a real gem underneath if you dig a bit.

When sending a message, make it personal. Try to talk about something that you read in the profile. This will show that you have a common interest and actually read the profile and are not just basing you response on looks. When you send your message, try to come up with a unique and creative title so that it stands out from other messages in the person of interest’s inbox.

When using an online dating service, always be honest! Remember, if you’re looking for a match, your eventually going to have to meet them. Better to be honest up front.

When you join an online dating service, try to pick a creative and interesting user name. Don't use your real name. Many times you will not be able to change your user name, so take some time and pick a good one!

When setting up you online dating service profile, keep your headline short and creative. You want to catch people’s attention. If you’re a guy, show some humor, if you’re a girl, be a little bit flirty.

Make sure you have photos, especially if you’re a woman. Most guys will pass right over profiles without a photo.

When you respond to a message avoid making it too long. Be smart and funny. Respond to any question that were asked and then ask a few of your own (but don't turn it into an interrogation)

Try to respond to everyone. You wouldn't believe how many times people end up with someone that they would have never guessed they would. Also some dating services show your response percent. If your percentage is low, then some members may not even write to you as they think they may not get a response.

Last of all, remember to have fun. Online dating services can be very rewarding in helping build friendships, even if you don't find a match.