A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO ONLINE DATING

- Here’s a list of the do's and don’ts if you’re a beginner in the world of online dating - a complete beginners guide.

When you start a new hobby, there are so many things that could be confusing at first. And it might take a while to learn all the tricks of the trade. But, as time goes on, you get the hang of it and enjoy it more. 

It’s exactly the same with online dating. At first it might seem really strange. Are you posting too many photos or too little? Should you only post photos of yourself or include group photos? Should you give away your age in your bio or keep them guessing? What about where you live, do you share specific details like your neighbourhood or only mention your city? What if you live in a really big city?

There are so many questions and if you’re keen to get this whole dating thing started… There’s just simply not enough time to answer all of them.

Never fear when we’re near because we’ve managed to compile a list for the newbies. While we probably won’t be able to answer every single question about online dating that every single person on earth has ever asked, we might be able to cover at least a few.

So, without further hesitation… Here’s a beginner’s guide to online dating:

• Photo 101

It’s really up to you to decide how many photos you want to post. The only two things that are important when it comes to posting photos on online dating sites, are that you should post more photos of yourself than of you in group settings, and post recent photos of yourself.

First up, let’s look at the single versus group photo thing. There’s nothing more frustrating than having to go through what seems like an endless collage of group photos to try and figure out who’s profile you’re looking at. By all means, show off your friends and family, and what you guys like to do for fun. After all, your date will eventually end up spending time with them as well if it works out.

The other aspect about the recent photos is super important. Time changes us, so make sure you post your most recent photos so that the other person knows what they’re in for and you’re not left alone by yourself after the first date because the real you decided to show up and not the younger, fresher looking version you’re putting out there in your bio.

• Location, location, location

If you’re in it to find a potential lifelong partner, don’t mess around with long distance dating. Modern dating has its own set of challenges, don’t add to it by dating someone who’s too far away. If you have to catch a flight or spend a lot of time in the car to see each other, you’re adding more pressure. 

Not to mention the problem with different time zones. Can you imagine the frustration of not being able to talk to your significant other when you want to share good or bad news because they’re asleep when you’re awake and vice versa?

Keep it local and date without the extra pressure of keeping the flame going while you won’t be able to spend weekends, special days or holidays together. After all, when life throws its curveballs, you want your significant other there to be there for you.

• Your bio

When writing your bio, forget about that uncomfortable feeling of not being able to tell other people how awesome you are. Rather go with the angle of thinking what type of person you want to attract and write your bio so that it will attract them.

If you’re keen to find someone who loves fishing just as much as you do, make sure to mention how much you love fishing and wouldn’t mind a partner who’s into fishing as well.

What about travelling? When posting photos, share photos of you on your travels. This is sure to attract others who like to travel as well. It’s no good not sharing what you like and then wondering why it didn’t work out. How are you supposed to connect when you have absolutely nothing in common?

Your bio should be a true reflection of who you are, what you like to do for fun, what your future plans are and so on. It’s up to you how much or how little you want to share. Just make sure you’re honest.

• Don’t mix business with pleasure

No, we’re not saying you shouldn’t dip your toe into the dating pool at work, we’re saying you shouldn’t access your online dating site at work. Make sure you use non work-related devices when accessing your online dating site.

Most companies have internet usage policies that give them the right to check which sites you’ve been on, for how long and some could even access your online passwords. You don’t want anyone seeing what you’re chatting about or with who, so make sure you keep it totally private by always using your own personal devices.

• They cancelled? Don’t worry

Sometimes people have to cancel simply because they have to and not because they wanted to back out of the date. Life happens and sometimes its messy. If your date cancelled, take it in your stride and keep in mind that you’ve probably had to do it before as well, or that the chances are big that you might be doing it in the future.

Don’t worry about it, but rather keep it light-hearted and suggest a retake of the date. You showing that you’re mature enough to handle a cancellation might just work in your favour.

Online dating is fun. The whole idea is to enjoy the adventure you’re on. Whether you’re in it to find your soulmate, settle down, get married and have kids within your own allocated timeframe, or you’re simply interested in meeting new people, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re a beginner, follow our guide and see where online dating takes you. It might just be the most fun you’re having in a long time. You can thank us later.