You know someone who has tried it. You've probably even seen advertisements for it on television and in your favorite magazine (especially for eHarmony and Match.com). But still, for some reason, you haven't yet given online dating a fair try. Maybe you're a bit nervous. Maybe you don't know a lot about computers and the Internet (But if you are reading this and have an email account, you probably already know enough). Perhaps you'll think less of yourself if you try and find companionship using technology rather than your personality. These concerns are all understandable, but when you consider that millions of men and women are doing it every day, you have to stop and think that maybe online dating isn't so bad and in fact could be very fulfilling.
Online Dating is incredibly simple. Some might say overly simple. You first need a way to connect to the Internet, which most people today already have so that should not be an issue (again especially if you are reading this. Then using the Internet, you need to find a suitable online dating website. Don't let the word suitable scare you off. As you'll see once you get into online dating, there are lots of different dating sites that cater to different groups or lifestyles. You'll find sites for seniors, Christians, homosexuals, plain old heterosexual, and plenty more. Thankfully GetThatDate.com has reviewed many online dating sites for you, so that you do not have to. Just click here to start searching for the best online dating site.
Most of the online dating sites are subscription-based, meaning that you'll have to join before you'll be able to participate. Often, it will cost money to join, but on almost all online dating websites, initial membership is free. The process of joining usually doesn't involve much more than agreeing to the online dating site's terms and conditions and paying the fee, if applicable. Most online dating sites allow you to browse profiles for free, but then require you to pay money in order to contact someone that you are interested in, or for someone to contact you.
Once you're a member, the next thing you'll need to do is create a profile and a header. Your profile is what other members are going to read and based on your profile, another person should be able to determine whether you sound like someone worth pursuing. Basically, are you a "match." An effective profile not only describes you, it also talks about the qualities you're looking for in someone else. Think of it as a mini commerical for you. YOur own personal advertisement. Make it unique and be sure to proofread it before posting so you're certain that what it says is really what you want to say. If the site allows members to attach photos to profiles, you'll have to decide if this is something you'll want to do. If so, just follow the instructions to attach it to your profile. Important! Always post a photo! If allowed post more than one. Statistics show that members with photos are much more likely to be succesful at online dating than those who do not post a photo.
Once your profile is posted (with your picture of course), you can sit back and wait for others to start corresponding or you can start checking out other members' profiles. This is the fun part, but it can also be nerve wracking. If you find someone who sounds interesting, you can initiate the conversation. Besides corresponding via email and the ability to sort/delete your messages, online dating sites usually offer other activities you can participate in. Some sites offer live (typed) conversations via a site's message board, live chat like aoL Instant Messanger and some sites host special events. Check both out and see whether those are activities you want to participate in.
Online dating websites offer two really nice features. First, they are all open around the clock so you can 'date' when it's convenient for you, whether you are a night owl or an early bird. And second, new members join all the time so there will always be someone new to check out!