The Do’s and Don’ts of Online Dating for Men
Slide into DM’s…the right way.
Online dating has become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. It allows you to connect with people you may not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise, and it's an easy way to break the ice with someone new. But just because you are looking for love, be sure not to go at it in all the wrong places. Just like with traditional dating, there are certain do's and don'ts to keep in mind when you're looking for love online. Here are some important tips for guys to keep in mind when they're navigating the world of online dating.
DO: Be Honest
Honesty is key when it comes to online dating. This means being upfront about your intentions, your lifestyle, and your personality. Don't pretend to be someone you're not, because that's not fair to the people you're connecting with. If you're not interested in a long-term relationship, say so. If you're a homebody who prefers quiet nights in, don't pretend to be a party animal. Being honest will not only help you find someone who is a good match for you, but it will also save you time and potential heartache down the road.
DON’T: Be Creepy
Online dating can be a great way to connect with people, but it can also be a breeding ground for creepy behavior. Don't be that guy who sends unsolicited pictures or messages that are sexual in nature. Don't stalk someone's social media profiles or try to find out their personal information before they're ready to share it with you. And most importantly, don't ignore someone's boundaries or make them feel uncomfortable. Treat people with respect and dignity, just as you would in real life.
DO: Take Time to Read Profiles
One of the benefits of online dating is that you have the ability to browse profiles and get a sense of who someone is before you even start talking to them. Take advantage of this opportunity and take the time to read through someone's profile. This will give you an idea of their interests, personality, and what they're looking for in a relationship. Use this information to craft a thoughtful message that shows you've taken the time to get to know them.
DON'T: Use Generic Messages
Speaking of messages, don't fall into the trap of sending generic messages to everyone you match with. This is a surefire way to come across as disingenuous and uninterested in getting to know someone on a deeper level. Take the time to craft personalized messages that show you've read their profile and are genuinely interested in them as a person.
DO: Be Patient
Online dating can be a numbers game, and it's important to remember that not everyone you match with will be a good fit for you. It's also important to remember that finding the right person takes time. Don't get discouraged if you don't find someone right away, and don't be too quick to give up on someone if things don't seem to be progressing as quickly as you'd like. Be patient and trust that the right person will come along when the time is right.
DON'T: Ghost or Flake Out
This ain’t high school folks. Ghosting ain’t cool. Finally, it's important to remember that online dating involves real people with real feelings. Don't ghost someone if you're not interested in them, and don't flake out on plans at the last minute. If you're not feeling a connection, it's okay to politely let them know and move on. It's much better to be honest and upfront than to leave someone hanging or wondering what went wrong.
In a survey conducted by Plenty of Fish, it was found that 80% of millennials have been ghosted at least once, and 25% have been ghosted more than once.
5 Popular Websites for Online Dating
One of the oldest and most well-known dating websites, Match.com has been around since 1995 and has helped countless couples find love. It offers a range of features including a comprehensive matching algorithm, in-depth profiles, and the ability to search for potential matches based on specific criteria.
Known for its compatibility matching system, eHarmony is a popular dating website that uses a lengthy questionnaire to match users based on their personality traits and values. It also offers features like video dating and an anonymous phone calling system.
A free dating website that offers both a desktop and mobile app, OkCupid uses a series of questions to match users based on their interests and personality. It also allows users to search for potential matches based on specific criteria, such as location or interests.
A popular dating app that requires women to make the first move, Bumble has gained a reputation for empowering women in the online dating world. It offers a range of features including the ability to search for matches based on specific criteria and a video chat feature.
One of the most popular dating apps in the world, Tinder is known for its simple swipe-based interface and fast-paced matching system. It offers a range of features including the ability to search for matches based on location and a paid subscription service called Tinder Plus, which offers additional features like unlimited swipes and the ability to see who has liked your profile.
Conclusion
Do’s and Dont’s…
In conclusion, online dating can be a great way to meet new people and potentially find love. By following these do's and don'ts, you'll be able to navigate the world of online dating with confidence and integrity. Remember to be honest, respectful, and patient, and you'll be well on your way to finding the right person for you.
