Does online dating work? Can beautiful friendships be found online? It is considered, more and more, as a viable way to find a mate.
If you would like to join this community of people looking for people then it would be wise to understand a little of the etiquette that makes a healthy environment.
There are several rules and policies that, if followed, will make the experience more enjoyable for everybody involved.
When it comes to receiving the benefits offered by the online matchmakers it is best to follow the golden rule.
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
The name of the game is respect.
Some people simply don't like following the rules and it will affect them negatively because they may not end up meeting with another in the end or worse, they may meet someone just like themselves.
Ouch.
It is a good idea to review the other person's profile before responding so that you will have a better idea of how to express yourself with observations.
If possible, read everything that they have to offer.
You will find things to tip you off on how to reply or you may find things that are not in line with what you are looking for.
You may think it obvious that we should read up on the other person, however, how many of us try to do things without reading the instructions first.
It is human nature to want to cut corners.
Try to find what they like to do when going on a date.
This will warn you as to whether they are high maintenance or not.
Be sure that the age range is that with which you feel comfortable.
You don't want to spend your valuable time on someone that won't match your wishes in the end.
Don't feel obligated to them and be willing to call off your correspondence without drawing it out too long.
Other requirements may include their home living circumstances.
Do they have young children? Do they smoke? Are they religious? Does their race matter to you? Do you have particular sexual preferences? Again, if there is no compatibility, don't waste your time or theirs.
As with ordinary conversation begin with unobtrusive questions.
Ask them how they are.
Going straight to personal questions can be seen as obnoxious or even offensive.
Remember that you can't make a second first impression.
Ask about their special interests rather than questions that may be more personal.
If you see another person as being attractive, be slow in your praise concerning only their looks.
Be sure to show your depth by commenting on their intelligence, kindness or even their humility.
Stressing only the importance of looks is rather shallow and will not take a relationship to a higher level.
In fact, recent findings show that good looking people have a higher propensity to stray.
Find other traits that will make your relationship more meaningful.
Most importantly, don't continue to pursue someone who has no interest in you.
Such behavior may be seen as stalking.
Often the other person may not respond at all.
It is not necessary to badger them with questions of whether or not they received your message.
They received it.
Let it rest and move on.
The same also applies if they come right out and express that they have no interest.
Not every relationship is going to be a two way match.
Use common sense and adhere to the policies that you agreed to when signing up for their service.