Dating Website Do's and Dont's

Since becoming single over 2 years ago...I've spent quite a bit of time on dating websites. Some people find success and even marriage, and some are completely turned off and give up quickly. Here are some helpful hints I've learned that will hopefully lead you to a successful experience and not a headache...

DO'S

~Be positive. Be hopeful but still realistic. Don't necessarily look for Mr/Mrs Perfect. Some people are not great at writing profiles or even messages. Look for qualities instead of perfection.

~When writing your profile be honest, but not necessarily laying it all out on the table in the first 5 minutes or 3 paragraphs. Mystery is exciting and alluring and so is a sense of humor, so avoid taking yourself too seriously. After all it should be a fun experience and not a painful job interview.

~For the gentlemen...if your looking for a real relationship, concider avoiding the shirtless, ab flexing, mirror shot. We all know you are proud of your six pack, but unless your looking for a hookup most women prefer a nice close-up of your face to see your eyes or smile.

~For the ladies...in that same respect avoid the low cut cleavage shot, bikini or even underwear pictures. Yes we've all seen them, but all your going to attract is every horn dog in town and his hormones.

DONT'S

~Don't be too quick to judge. Even if their profile isn't quite what you were hoping for, take a chance and start a conversation. Sometimes people can surprise you, so don't be afraid to take a chance.

~We've all heard the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover". Well this also goes for for someone's picture posted. You can look at someone's picture and think they are good looking or not, but real attraction and chemistry can only be found out in person.

~Don't be too quick to give out your phone number or even email. Take the time to communicate on the sight...after all that's what it's there for. It should be a safe place to chat and find out if you have common interests and goals. Unfortunately there are some "not so nice" people out there that may become slightly obnoxious if you become no longer interested. On the website, you have the delete button and even a block button, that you may wish you had on your phone!

~NEVER give out your home address. It's even a good idea to meet in a neutral location for the first meeting. With that said, if you get to know someone over time and multiple conversations, ladies you may feel safe to let the gentleman  pick you up...after all chivalry isn't completely dead...I hope!

Now of course these tips are for anyone who goes to these dating websites with the intent, hope, or looking for a relationship. If you are in fact looking for just a hookup or nothing serious, you may want to disregard some of these tips. However never skip the honesty part. There is nothing wrong with looking for something fun or maybe not ready for a relationship...especially if your just coming out of a committed relationship. Just make sure to be honest and upfront about your intentions. After all you are looking to find someone with your common interests and hopefully a connection, without leading anyone on or disappointment. Good luck and have fun in the virtual world of love.