We’re all guilty of making mistakes from time to time; as the saying begins, ‘to err is human’. However, when it comes to online dating, some mistakes are far more costly than others, and could seriously hamper your chances of finding that special someone. Whether you’re guilty of being too fussy, neglecting your inbox, or giving too much away, some mistakes are to be avoided…
Being too fussy
Unless there are any personality traits or hobbies you’d really like to avoid, it’s always a good idea to keep an open mind when online dating. Rather than pinning all of your hopes on a particular type of person who may, or may not be out there, try looking for attractive characteristics in all of the profiles that you look at. Don’t look for reasons not to date a person, but rather the little things you actually do like about them. Do you have any common interests? Is there anything you’d like to ask them? You may have been a fan of blondes, or a lover of tattoos until now, but widen that net; being fussy is unlikely to get you anywhere online.
Skim-reading other members’ profiles
We’re all guilty of skim-reading news articles, magazine columns, and social media feeds, but how often do you glance through other members’ dating profiles with the same disinterest? You may feel as though you’re being efficient in your quest for love, but what you’re actually risking is an opportunity to connect with somebody – or an unrequited message if you’ve missed the mark. As a dating site member, you should know better than anyone how much time and effort goes into creating a profile, so show other members the respect you’d no doubt wish for.
Being creative with the truth
Honesty is always the best policy, particularly when it comes to online dating. Lies are always discovered, whether you’re pretending to be two different people depending upon whom you’re talking to, or lying to everyone – including yourself. It can be very tempting to create a persona when you’re dating online. After all, when else are you going to get such an opportunity to be the best version of yourself? However, how many meaningful relationships are actually based on such mistruths? Very few, as it turns out. When it comes to dating online, you’re always bound to find someone who loves you for all your imperfections, as Match.com would tell you. Oh, and it’s always best to be honest about your intentions from the get-go. If you’re looking for a deep and meaningful relationship let them know; if you’d prefer a friend with benefits, don’t let things get too serious.
Giving too much of yourself away
Now, we mean this one figuratively and literally. Be careful what you reveal to people, particularly those you’re only just getting to know. While it certainly pays to be honest, there is such a thing as over-sharing – particularly if you’re divulging personal details to someone who could be, well, anyone. Always keep telephone numbers, email addresses, and home addresses to yourself, and always be sparse with the truth if someone is pushing for random information such as previous addresses, mother’s maiden name, or first pet. Well, you never know, do you? It’s also a good idea to remain cautious when it comes to meeting; don’t push something that isn’t ready to happen, don’t jump into bed out of fear that’s what expected, and don’t splurge on that first date. You’ll be setting an expensive precedent if your first date involves bells, whistles, and then some.
Remember that mistakes are to be learned from, and that we’re all prone to blunder every now and again. Think very carefully about your conduct online, though, and always endeavour to be true to yourself.
