Dating, online or off, can be scary and frustrating. Follow these ten simple tips to help get you in the right groove – and off to a great start!
1. Be ConfidentConfidence, confidence, confidence! Nothing is more attractive than a person who is confident in their own skin. Once you are happy in your own skin and self-fulfilled, you will attract the matches you deserve, not just the ones you settle for. So relax and be your genuine self.
2. Be InterestingRead the newspaper and know what’s going on in the world. Current events are great conversation starters. Interesting conversation will attract others to start talking to you.
3. Increase Your ChancesDon’t limit yourself by dating and approaching one type of person. Don’t pass on someone until you get to know them. Love happens at the most unexpected times with the most unexpected people!
4. Use Great PropsNever leave your home without a prop -dogs, kids, unusual jewelry, a fabulous scent, a sweatshirt with your favorite passion, interesting ties, hats, or an interesting book or newspaper. Props can break the ice and help in starting up a conversation.
5. NetworkJust as you network with your friends, colleagues and family for work, you can call on them to network for you on your dating quest.
6. Be HonestBe yourself from the start. People can always sense when you are not being 100% honest and it is a turn off and leaves people feeling weary of you.
7. Be ProactiveGo after what you want. You have nothing to lose by trying, so get out there.
8. Stay Positive and Have FunBe playful, light-hearted and spontaneous. Show your vulnerability.
9. Start a ConversationThe best opening line is saying hello. Talk about the surroundings, ask a question, ask for help, or state an opinion.
10. Be PatientThe first person (or second or third) you connect with may not be the right one for you. Have patience and realize that you may need to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince (or princess)!
About the Author
Stephanie is the Match Maven for iMatchup.com, a popular online dating service with over 2.7 million members in the U.S. and Canada. She is a relationship expert who fields questions from users on everything from online profiles to how to propose marriage. Visit www.iMatchup.com for more information.