Internet Dating: 8 Simple And Effective Ways To Start

1. The first thing to focus on is writing great profiles that do two things:

• Get you “found” and
• Get responses from people who are very close to your ideal match

2. Posting a photograph is the single most important factor for getting people to read your profile. Profiles with pictures are the first to be browsed. Post a current photograph.

3. A creative, catchy headline can separate you from the masses instantly. Be concise and to the point in the body of your profile. Keep the information simple and honest. Remember that you are trying to attract the kind of people you want to meet. Integrity is always better than stretching the truth. Let him or her know who you are from the “get-go.” Don’t waste time with people who are looking for someone you are not!

4. Grammar and spelling are important. Write your profile as a WORD document, run a spell check and then cut and paste it into the profile text boxes. Use upper and lower case.

5. When you send an e-mail either initiating contact or responding, a subject heading that stands out is very helpful. The reader can get a first impression of you even before s/he gets to the body of your e-mail. Take advantage of this opportunity to put your true self out there.

6. Be timely. Answer the responses or initial e-mails within three – four days. It is considered good etiquette to answer them all since people have taken the time and effort to communicate with you. If you become overwhelmed by the interest of many men or women, simply freeze your account until you can catch up and catch your breath.

7. Always be polite. Generally it is a good idea to avoid jokes and sarcasm. They often don’t come across as they were intended. Resist embellishing or exaggerating who you are or anything about yourself.

8. Don’t complain about the state of your life or bash your exes. Ask open-ended questions that invite the recipient to answer your questions with personal stories. It is safe to talk about interests, hobbies, traveling, books, movies or activities you like to do regularly. That’s how a conversation will start. Avoid heavy or highly charged political issues or issues related to religion, abortion or the death penalty.

Keep your e-mails fun, positive and upbeat. Think about each e-mail as an opportunity to get to know another new person. Be curious and interested.

Remember, only YOU can make it happen!