Online dating has been around for a long time, but a lot of people are still on the fence about it. According to a national survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, the number of people using dating chat software and other online dating services is on the rise. However, more than a third of the study participants reported being an online dater but haven’t actually gone out with someone they’ve met online.

If you’re having a hard time getting into online dating, this guide should help you ease up on it. The following are some beginner-friendly tips about online dating that you should consider pursuing.

1. Determine Your Needs

Like any other form of dating, you’ll always have a goal in mind and the results you’d like to see. Whether you want to meet someone interesting or to develop and nurture a long-term romantic relationship, defining your goals and needs is vital before you start dating online. If you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, there are online dating coaches available for advice. You can also ask some of your friends with experience in the online dating scene.

2. Find the Right App

There are hundreds of online dating sites, apps, and platforms available nowadays. Now that you have a clear goal in mind, this will play a crucial role in finding the right platform for creating your dating profile. Some apps and websites are designed to match people up for a date or two, but their algorithms haven’t been refined in a way that really promotes lasting connections.

Depending on your goals in mind, this could be a hinder to finding someone that aligns with your goals. Maybe you’re not the type of person who likes to chat, so finding a video dating app might be more up your alley. Whatever your goals are, use that to find the perfect platform for you to begin your online dating journey.

3. Create a Great Online Dating Profile

Now that you know what you’re looking for and which apps you’ll be using, it’s time to create an online dating profile! This is where you need to write a biography, outline your interests, and choose several profile photos for your page. Here are some quick tips on you should put on your dating profile:

–       Fill in all the fields and make use of all the tools in the app.

–       Provide plenty of examples of what you enjoy doing. For instance, instead of saying you enjoy reading, talk about your favorite book.

–       Be concise. While sharing details is important, avoid sharing too much about yourself.

–       Be as open and honest as you can.

–       Avoid clichés you see in most rom-com movies. Even if you do like ‘walking on the beach’ or ‘drinking wine in front of a roaring fire,’ leave it out – everyone says that. Think of something interesting that could be a conversation starter.

4. Send a Message

Unless you’re on a platform that restricts you from reaching out to multiple people, it’s best to initiate a conversation to your matches with a friendly message, whether it’s in a video or text format. Keep things light and fun. Avoid complaining about your past lovers as it paints a bad picture of you. You don’t have to do anything big or fancy for now since this is just your introduction. After introducing yourself and things are going well, then you can ask the person to go out on a date. The rest is up to you.

Conclusion

Dating is never easy, and dating online probably requires just as much effort and time as meeting in person. However, there’s nothing to worry about. Follow these tips and just be willing to try something new, and you’ll eventually find success in online dating.

Zepeel is probably one of the best video dating apps online today. What makes Zepeel different from other dating services is it’s the first all-video dating app in the market. We make it easy for you to connect with other amazing members for some quality “getting to know” moments. Start your online dating journey with our video dating app today!