How to date online
Did you know simply by applying a few clever rules you can maximise your chances of finding a more suitable and compatible match. Matt Garrett from Relationships Australia, offers these 7 tips to help you successfully date online.
Tip 1: Listen to your gut instincts about when to meet up
One of the hardest things to work out is when to move from the online zone to meet up in real life. That can be tricky to pinpoint, but you need to be guided by the feedback you’re getting, says Garrett. He recommends asking yourself some key questions such as: Does the person seem to live up to their profile? Do I feel attracted to them? “Listen to your inner voice about when the time is right, but still hold back a little bit and be a bit cautious,” he advises.
Tip 2: Master honest self-flattery
You want to be honest about yourself and not tell porkies but you don’t want to be so truthful that you don’t paint yourself in a flattering light. “It’s about finding a balance between truthful information and completely distorted information,” says Garrett. That might mean being a bit creative with your descriptions. For example, are you into painting? You might like to describe yourself as a budding artist instead of a complete novice with no skills. Remember, confidence can be infectious and very attractive to others.
Tip 3: Have an open mind
Having realistic expectations will keep your online experience enjoyable. You can strike it lucky and find your life partner in your very first encounter but this is the exception rather than the rule says Garrett. He recommends keeping an open mind and being patient. “Meeting people online is just like meeting people in a bar, there are all types and some just won’t be compatible with you. Regardless, you will meet some amazing people and even if you don’t find love straight away you will almost certainly end up with a great circle of friends,” he says.
Tip 4: Follow up a description of something you like with a little bit more detail
Saying “I love to travel” or “I like movies” is all good and well but that can mean different things to different folks. Here’s a tip: follow up a statement about something you like with more information to give people a little bit more insight into your personality. “If travel is your thing you might say something like ‘I just got back from Vanuatu last week and I had an amazing time,’” says Garrett.
Tip 5: Dress smartly
Your profile picture should ultimately reflect the sort of person you want to attract, Garrett advises. “You don’t want to dress in a hessian bag, but you also don’t want to look like you’re going to a black tie function on a Saturday night,” he explains. Wearing anything risqué is also a bad idea. He recommends a smart head and shoulders shot with a neat outfit that matches what you’ve said in your profile description.
Tip 6: Meet securely and safely when you do meet up
Garrett advises following these simple rules for safe and enjoyable meet-ups.
- A) Always let someone else know where you’re going and what you are doing
- B) Always meet in a public place
- C) Start with a coffee or a drink, don’t go for a full meal
Tip 7: Have fun!
Remember it is about the journey and not the destination. Make the best of every situation and remember to be kind. Even if they aren't your true love you may make a new friend or at least have an enjoyable night out.
Have you found love or a new friend online? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by Dominic Bayley. Republished with permission of Wyza.com.au.