Friday, July 13, 2007

The Unwritten Rules of Online Dating Revealed

With over 40 million people having ventured into the online dating arena, it would be a gross understatement to say that Internet dating is big business. I am sure you are aware that you must protect your privacy on the Internet - you know better than to provide personal information and to trust any Tom, Dick or Harry that comes along. But did you know that online dating also has unwritten rules and that adhering to these rules is crucial to your online dating success?

Lower Your Expectations

Unfortunately, over 95% of those who enter the online dating scene do not actually find their match. These are the people who throw in the towel after a couple of disappointing dates. It is important that you persevere. Online dating is a process. Finding the right person will likely take time and persistence. This means you will need to have a lot of patience to search, screen, email, chat and date before you succeed. Therefore, it is important that you keep your expectations low. After all, would you not rather be pleasantly surprised than deeply disappointed?

Take Your Time to Respond

Your instincts will probably tell you to respond to emails from prospective dates right away... But let me tell you that you need to slow down. You do not want to come across too eager or desperate and taking your time to reply will also allow you to formulate a thoughtful and appropriate response. Responding during the weekend and on holidays is also something you want to avoid to maintain the right image.

Be Yourself

When you compose your online dating profile, it is not unthinkable that you might be tempted to tell little white lies. Whether it concerns your age, height, weight, hobbies or career - do not give in to temptation! Trust is important in all relationships and you do not want to risk sabotaging what might be a great one early on, do you? Once you meet him or her, the truth will come out and you can say farewell to living "happily ever after" together. Additionally, lying requires a great memory and will add unnecessary stress to what should be a fun and enjoyable online dating situation. So do not do it!

Ladies, Let Yourself be Chased

It is a cliche because it is true: men are born hunters, so let them hunt. Yes, this is the 21st century, you have equal rights and to all intent and purposes, we live in a civilized society. Nevertheless, do not chase him per email. Instead, be enigmatic and sophisticated and let him come to you. Trust me, being chased will enhance your online dating experience!

Thanks to the Internet, the world has shrunk to a single neighborhood. The boy or girl next door that you want to date may actually reside in another country or in a city close by. Online dating makes all of this possible. Keep in mind these unwritten rules as you cast out your net and you will certainly increase your chances of landing that one fish that you are searching for!


http://www.content-edge.com/Article/The-Unwritten-Rules-of-Online-Dating-Revealed/28522