Digital Dating Do’s and Don’ts to Meet Your Match Online

One of the most common ways to meet your match in today’s dating environment is through online dating.

However, just because it is common, doesn’t mean it is easy.

You might have a lot of questions about how to make it work. For example, you might want to know how to create a profile that stands out from the crowd.

Also, you might feel more comfortable communicating online. Then later, you may wonder how to build a meaningful relationship once communication moves to the real world.

These digital do’s and don’ts serve as a guide to help you meet your match online. However, remember that the most important thing is always to do what feels authentic and right for you.

Digital Do’s to Meet Your Match Online

There is a lot of good advice out there from people who have had success with online dating.

Getting Started Do’s

Here are some things you should do when setting up your profile:

• Try different dating apps to find the ones that work best for you.
• Write a short (not lengthy) profile bio that conveys something unique about you.
• Include a profile photo (or several); choose natural images that show you doing things you love.
• Write in a positive, conversational tone. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top. Focus on the good things.
• Be specific about your interests.

Do’s for Interacting Online

Once you find a potential match, consider some tips for chatting:

• Ask questions. Pay attention to the answers.
• Answer questions honestly.
• Do some Googling. Find out what the Internet can tell you about your match.
• Discuss when to meet in real life and what you would like to do.

Building the Relationship

Once you meet in real life, here are some tips for making the relationship work:

• Build some positive experiences. Do exciting, fun things together.
• Bring up important issues after developing a connection.
• Be honest. Tell the truth and just be yourself.
• Keep an open mind. Online dating makes it easy for us to judge the little things.

Digital Don’ts for Online Dating

The most important thing about online dating is that you proceed with your own safety in mind. Here are the don’ts:

• Don’t give out confidential information online.
• Don’t meet in a private place. Always meet in public.
• Do not go out without letting a loved one know where you will be.

In addition, don’t ignore red flags on the first few dates. Sometimes you can fall in love with someone’s profile to the exclusion of getting to know who they really are. You don’t need to be overly suspicious but take the time to get to know the person in real life.

That said, don’t get negative about online dating. Go into the experience with a positive attitude. Try to have fun.

The Grey Area: Do What’s Right for You

The above guidelines are helpful for trying to meet your match online. However, a lot of digital dating really just depends on what is right for you. As with any other kind of dating, so much of online dating isn’t really about “right” or “wrong.”

For example, you may wonder whether you should focus your energy on one profile at a time. In contrast, you could explore different profiles in hopes of finding a better match. Neither option is more “right” than the other. Some people find it most comfortable to find a potential match, see where it goes, then try again if it doesn’t work. Other people enjoy chatting with multiple people to see which one goes somewhere. Do what’s right for you.

Digital dating comes with many challenges. Therapy can help you as you do some introspection, set goals, and vet your relationship prospects as you navigate the ups and downs of trying to meet your match. I’m here to help. Learn more about my services here.