The modern world has introduced technology that is making communication and connecting much faster and easier. Whether you are looking for a hookup, a long-term commitment, or some side action, there’s a dating site for you.
If you haven’t jumped on the online dating train, then you need to and fast, because it isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Not convinced? Read these six reasons why you should start swiping now.
With the wide variety of dating sites available to singles and not-so singles, there is a lot of misconceptions and unanswered questions surrounding this booming industry.
We are here to clear a few things up, by answering the most frequently asked questions about online dating.
HOW DOES ONLINE DATING WORK?
It’s actually a very easy concept that most platforms follow. Visitors have to sign up by adding their most flattering photos and providing a bit of background or personal information.
In most cases, visitors have to pay a small monthly fee to become a member. Members have access to other member’s profiles and are able to send messages, virtual gifts, and match with potentials. Once a mutual interest has been established, the two (or three) people can decide whether they want to meet up.
Some online dating websites like Ashley Madison, is aimed towards individuals that are married. For a little bit of side fun, men and women can sign up and test the waters. On the site, women get free credits to send winks and messages to other married individuals.
High profile online dating sites, like Ashely Madison, have very strict privacy rules and regulations. All photos are discreet, and the entire service is designed to actually hide identities in order for adulteress not to be caught.
When it comes to the online dating world, anything goes. The saying, ‘different strokes for different folks’ definitely applies. As everyone is looking for something specific, which can be found.
Is it Safe to Date Online?
There is no way that an online predator can take advantage of you, if you don’t let them. Even though most matchmaking websites do common background checks and identity verifications, it’s up to you to practice online safety. Many sites claim to be fake profile-free, whilst others are ridden with them.
Most of all, it’s important that all members use their own common sense to identify someone who wants to chat only to pry for money.
With the MTV series Catfish scaring us all, online dating has become exciting but also a bit scary. Follow these 10 security tips for staying safe online: https://www.safety.com/10-online-dating-safety-tips/.
Will My Friends Know That I’m On One?
Unless your friends are also a subscribed member, there’s no way that your dating profile will pop up on your social media feed or on a Google search. These matchmaking websites are designed and put together to try and keep all profiles as private as possible.
Rest assured, that if you sign up to a well-known and credible platform, that you won’t be easily discovered by others.
Will I Find True Love?
Many singles are really looking for a long-term commitment; a connection with someone that they can share their lives with. Even if many sites are aimed towards those who want a little bit of side action or an easy hookup, there are sites who cater towards those open to finding the real deal.
There are loads of couples who have met online and have gotten married. Watch this testimony of a couple who fell in love online. It’s not guaranteed that you will find the love of your life, but the chances of meeting them is definitely there.
Is it Worth the Membership Fee?
In short- yes! It is worth paying a few extra dollars to become a member. Especially if you are looking for higher quality people. Credible online dating sites don’t allow non-members access to certain features. If you are serious in meeting someone who is like-minded and serious about actually meeting up, then pay the fee. It’s an investment in your dating life.
Members get loads of perks that include virtually traveling to other locations. This allows you to match with men and women from anywhere in the world – super exciting! You’ll be able to see full profiles, send virtual gifts and unlimited messages to those you are interested in.
Don’t forget that when you are part of an online base, that you are actually trying to sell yourself to potential viewers. You want the cream of the crop to come across your gorgeous pics and endearing profile. Members get an advantage in that their profiles are boosted in order for more people to access it.
How Do I Make the Move from Phone to Real Life?
Unfortunately, there are loads of singles who are on dating sites just for distraction. Either they are going through a rough patch in life and need someone to boost their ego or they need distraction from a heartbreak.
When you are serious in actually meeting up, whether it’s to find a real connection or just to hookup, you really want the other person to participate. Texting and chatting over the phone without an intent to move towards an actual date is a waste of time.
You’ll know that you’ve found the one when they show mutual interest in meeting up in real life.
Initially, it can be quite scary moving from texting to talking over the phone and then meeting in real life. If you want something to happen, that is what you have to do – there’s no way to get around that fact. Encourage the other person to feel comfortable with you before you meet up. You can encourage this by initiating a phone call and then a video call. It’s always best to suggest meeting in a public place first before moving to a more private location.
Hopefully your fears of the online dating world have been stilled. Give it a go, you have nothing to lose and at the very least you’ll meet a few interesting people.
