The new year is well underway and it’s time to kick those new year’s resolutions into action. What better time to put yourself out there and meet someone new than Valentine’s Day? Online dating guru and Oasis.com CEO Dave Heysen has some insider tips to help you navigate the exciting world of online dating.
Find The Site For You
Don’t be afraid to join more than one dating site but make sure it’s right for you and be sure to express what type of relationship your are looking for.
What Does Your Profile Pic Say About You?
Within seconds of looking at your profile picture people will have decided whether or not they’re interested in you. It’s no surprise that photos are the single most important part of any online dating profile for both men and women. Recent research conducted among online daters in the UK suggests that women should take their profile pics indoors, while the opposite applies for men who are more successful with outdoor snaps. While selfies are popular, it helps if they’re original and flattering! Avoid the selfie looking into the bathroom mirror at all costs! Make sure your profile is full of great quality, recent photos of yourself looking your best.
Your Username
You might be keen to get your profile up as quickly as possible, but we always recommend taking time to put some thought into your username. Along with your profile photo, your username will be one of the first things users will see and judge you on. Will ‘WildCat69’ help you attract the kind of date you’re after? Go for something fun and attention grabbing, but try to create something that reflects your personality. After all, it‘s just another way to show yourself off!!
You’re Interesting, So Make Sure It Shows!
Not many people feel comfortable talking about themselves – especially when it comes to writing it down. But your description of yourself is really important so be sure to give it the time it deserves. If you’re not sure where to start, imagine how your best friends would describe you if they were trying to set you up on a blind date. What would they say and how would they say it? casual dates, or a fully-fledged relationship? If you’re just dipping your toe start out with a free site that has a big pool of
options. That way you can take your time getting used to how it all works, while enjoying the freedom to browse for dates and chat to your matches with no strings attached.Your description should reflect who you are, not just your mood on that day. Remember you’re interesting, so don’t be afraid to show it.
Get To The Point
Think of your profile like a tweet – a snapshot of your personality, a teaser for something more. Keep your profile to a punchy 200 words or less. Share as much positive information about yourself in as few words as you can. Stick to the good stuff and avoid sharing unnecessary details about your family, your job, your ex or your dream date. Save it for the first date!
Tick All The Boxes
Give yourself the best chance by filling out every section of your profile and broadening your search. The more information your provide, the more matches you’ll receive. It’s that simple.
Honesty Is The Best Policy
Having a short and snappy profile is one thing, but honesty is a must. When it comes to your interests and circumstances, be upfront and honest. How else will you meet your perfect match?
Glass Half Full
Be positive. Send those negative thoughts packing and be open to all types of matches and conversations. The same goes for your description as no one likes a negative nancy.
Make A Move On Your Match
Be proactive and regularly check your matches. The sooner you make contact the better as you don’t want Mr or Ms Perfect to slip away. Online dating is a whole new ballgame. You’re not in a nightclub, so don’t wait to be approached. Go ahead and make the first move. If you like a person by the look of their profile, contact them!
Use GPS For Love
Remember to update your location if you move, or if you become open to meeting someone interstate. Widening the net will broaden you’re match potential immediately. You’ll be surprised how many people would be happy to move for love and travel for work.
Regular Refresh
Revisit your profile at least once a month to keep it fresh, appealing and up-to-date. A subtle change like adding some new interests, slightly re-wording your description or changing your location, will positively impact the chances of finding that perfect partner.
Holla Back
Don’t waste time procrastinating when someone contacts you, whether you’re interested or not. No-one likes waiting in anticipation for a response that never comes, so whether it’s a welcomed note or if you need to politely decline a date, let them know. If you are keen, get in quick and get chatting before someone else snags your match.
Safety First!
Scamming is an issue that dating sites take very seriously. While sophisticated systems are now in place to block scammers, they can be very cunning. If you come across someone suspicious report them to the site administrator and refrain from engaging with that person. And if anyone ever asks for money it should ring instant alarm bells.
Be Open Minded
This is the perfect opportunity to broaden your horizons and meet people you thought you’d never be attracted too. So they might go for the rival football team, or be shorter than you’d hoped. What does it really matter? Don’t make assumptions and don’t miss out on meeting someone great because you think you have a ‘type’.
Going Premium
If you’re looking for something specific consider opting for a premium account option. Most sites offer extra benefits including extra profile features and specific search and contact settings for a small monthly fee.
Social Media
Is it a good idea to share your Facebook or Twitter handle in your online dating profile? Well this is completely up to you, however we would suggest leaning on the conservative side and keeping this private, at least for the short term.
Have Fun With It
Just have fun! Don’t take it too seriously otherwise you won’t enjoy the experience. Good luck!
