Newly single? A beginner’s guide to the online matchmaking world

Have you just come out of a relationship? Assuming you’ve decided you are ready to move on and start afresh full of optimism, perhaps you have friends who have suggested joining a dating platform? If you’re a complete newbie when it comes to virtual matchmaking, there’s no reason to be apprehensive. Signing up to a dating service is such a convenient and relaxing way of looking for someone who would make the most compatible person for a relationship. Here is our guide to online dating platforms for the beginner.

Conduct preliminary research

There are so many dating services out there, your first consideration should be choosing which would be most suitable for your needs. A lot of this depends on the type of relationship you are seeking. Newly single people might not be looking for anything long-term. On the other hand, it could be the case that they are eager to get right back into that saddle. If you are over 50 you can spend some time exploring the available options by checking out best dating sites for over 60 before committing to any particular site.

Have a clear set of goals

Always aim to have definite aspirations in terms of what you are hoping to achieve with virtual matching. If you are going to be content with a series of casual encounters, fair enough. But online dating will offer you a range of longer-term solutions. Sometimes you have to develop a thicker skin than you once had, learning to cope with disappointments along the way.

Spend time compiling your profile

When you are writing a biography that is going to be posted on the Internet, to be viewed by a vast potential readership, don’t waffle. These details shouldn’t read like a CV, where you exhaustively list your attributes and achievements. Summarize the pertinent points. Your profile photograph should also be inviting.

Take advantage of the online shortcuts

Most dating sites will offer a lot of functionality for new members to get familiar with. It could be the case you don’t necessarily have to launch into a full-blown message exchange to let someone know you have your eye on them. Simply by liking their page or even sending them a wink can alert them that someone is keen to get to know them better in a charming, informal way.

Learn the lingo, take advice on board

If you are new to online dating you need to get to pick up some of the expressions unique to this form of social activity. If friends tell you that you have most likely been ‘ghosted’ by another single, the good news is that you don’t need to be overly concerned about contacting an exorcist! Most dating sites will offer blogs and expert advice you can tap into for all sorts of pointers, including full translations of all the phrases or emojis you will come across.

Honesty and courtesy are everything

When you’re single and seeking a new start, you must do so with positivity. There would be no point contacting prospective partners while bearing grudges or disillusionment at past failures. The person you are contacting will be able to tell that you are not 100% committed to making a fresh start. So make sure you leave all any baggage behind, and approach this from a position of eagerness to develop new frontiers.

Stay focussed on offline dating

Much as online dating will introduce you to a fabulous raft of possibilities, you shouldn’t look upon this as the be-all and end-all of forming relationships. There will still be opportunities available in more traditional meeting places, such as coffee shops or social clubs. Keep your options open.