Are you ready for internet dating? Let’s be frank and look at the facts

In today’s world internet dating has become wildly popular. If you are making the move to an online dating website you may have a few questions about how the virtual world of internet dating progresses to a real life romance.

Start with the basics: what is internet dating?

At its most basic, internet dating is using an online dating website to meet new people. Because of its convenience and success rate, internet dating is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people choose to use the internet as their dating platform. A majority of singles (59%) think that online dating is a good way to meet people¹ for good reason.

It is a misconception that internet dating is largely for young people, in fact over 50 singles are one of the fastest growing demographics choosing online dating as their dating destination. The Pew Research Center found that the number of 55-64 year olds using a dating site or mobile app has more than doubled since 2013¹, and continues to grow. Internet dating is an ever-expanding social phenomenon that isn’t restricted to one demographic but rather is a diverse virtual platform which brings together like-minded individuals with similar preferences and goals.

Internet dating vs traditional dating

On closer inspection, the differences between internet and traditional dating are not actually that vast. In traditional dating people often meet through a social network, such as mutual friends or family. And with internet dating, you also meet in a social network, only a virtual one created with a group of individuals who share a similar objective – to meet a suitable single match.

Traditionally, someone close to you may set you up with a desired partner; today, our advanced technology computer algorithms can match you with a compatible profile in a similar way. Instead of telling your best friend what you are looking for in a partner, you can include it in your online dating profile.

And it seems these adjustments in framework have had a positive impact on the dating experience. A remarkable 80% of singles who use online dating platforms agree that internet dating is a good way to meet people² and they would know! Similarly, their experience dating on the internet has been positive, with 61% agreeing that online dating is easier and more efficient than other ways of meeting new people².

With all the advances in technology and online social expansion, internet dating, when done in the right context with the right approach, has become the ultimate modern way to meet a match made in online heaven.

So yes, when thinking about internet dating vs traditional dating, the processes may have changed in terms of becoming more virtual, however, the integral structures of matchmaking, meeting through a verified network and defining your preferences, remain the same when using an online dating website, such as EliteSingles. And it seems that these changes have been in your best interest.

Internet dating: are you ready?

Before taking the leap, are you ready to start internet dating? As a matter of fact, are you ready for dating in general, be it online or offline, as the principles remain the same. Let’s look at the key factors to consider.

Emotional equilibrium

The best time to start dating is when you are emotionally relationship ready. This means that you are not rebounding in reaction to your last break up or looking for a warm place to rest your head as a distraction to heartbreak. Rather, you are ready to start dating when you have dealt with your past hurts in a healthy way and are emotionally rebalanced and ready to start a fresh new relationship.

The right reason

Part of being relationship ready, is being motivated by the right reasons. Are you looking to meet a partner because you would like a companion or a distraction? Relationships flourish when they are based more on compatible companionship and less on need. Going into a relationship driven by insecurity versus genuine attraction can result in a co-dependent relationship, which ultimately doesn’t make anyone happy! Wait until you’re ready to stand to on your own two feet and go in for what you can give, not get.

Timely timing

Everyone’s timing is different, and the truth is you can’t put a timeline on love. However, some periods of time are better than others to embark on a new relationship. Consider if you have the time to invest in a real relationship, growing it from the bottom up. Also consider your well-being, is this a positive time for you to embark on a new relationship?

On your terms and conditions

Going through a serious break-up or divorce can be tough on anyone. But it can be very useful to resolve what behaviors and attitudes you are willing to accept, or find unacceptable, in a partner. Love should not be based on a long list of conditions but defining what is important for you in terms of values and beliefs is a good starting point for any relationship.

Internet dating is a great way to get your love life back on track, so let’s see how to make the most of it with a quick how-to guide.

Internet dating: how to guide

Internet dating doesn’t need to be a strange new world. In three straightforward steps, you can make a smooth transition from single to ready to mingle.

1. Select the right platform for your purposes

With a proliferation of dating websites and apps available, you should select a dating platform that fits your intents and purposes. Are you looking for a casual or committed relationship, do you want a matchmaking service or to go solo? And what kind of person are you looking to meet? Consider the dating pool that you are joining and whether their intentions line up with your own or not.

2. Select an appropriate photo and set up your profile

Today your online dating profile overlaps the role of your first impression. When you set up your profile invest time in it and don’t just rush. Choose photos that feature you alone in a natural and well-lit setting. And in your details create an accurate description of yourself in your profile – as at the end of the day you want to attract someone who is interested in who you really are!

3. Start dating!

Ready, set, go – you are now ready to take that step forward and meet your match. Keep an open mind and enjoy the experience.

What is internet dating etiquette?

The last step is to learn the art of online charm, with this basic guide through internet dating etiquette.

• Authenticity is ace: Don’t try to be something that you are not. Just because you are online doesn’t mean that you have an excuse to hide behind your screen. Show up.
• Communicate clearly: To avoid your messaging being lost in translation, communicate your intentions and feelings clearly – you have nothing to lose. And just because this is internet dating, it doesn’t mean it is a space to play games. Say what you mean and mean what you say!
• Be resilient: Internet dating is not too dissimilar to dating in person. Don’t throw in the towel if you don’t find ‘the one’ on your first time logging in! As with any situation in life, it can take effort to find the right one for you, so be willing to invest the time to reap your reward.
• Put in the prep: Be prepared for the first date! After the swirl of meeting online, get ready to take your romance offline and meet for the face-to-face date. Put effort into your personal presentation, don’t carry the weight of high expectations and just let yourself have a great time!

And there you go, you are now all set to start an internet dating adventure of your own!

Ready to meet your match? Why not register with EliteSingles today to find out more.

About the author: Zoe Coetzee

Zoe Coetzee is a Relationship Psychologist and Editor for SilverSingles.

See more articles written by Zoe Coetzee