Dating Online and Relationships for Love on the Internet

Trying to steer through the world of relationships and love is a compelling task. Trying to navigate it on the Internet can be exhausting. With so many dating sites, comes many questions. What are the chances of finding a mate, is it safe, and can true love exist in cyberspace? There are often guidelines to follow, and rules to live by while dating online. Honesty and good judgement are among them.

What is online dating?

Online dating is a social network for relationships. With the convenience and comfort from home, interacting with others has never been easier. From living in a city, to residing in rural areas, Internet dating sites offer an array of options for those willing to leap into a cyberspace connection. Begin by choosing a flattering photograph of yourself, and a great tag line.

Emotions can sometimes come into play when engaging in the Internet dating game. An online connection can change the way you think about yourself. Focusing on your positive attributes, and forgetting about the past will translate through your profile. There will be people who compliment you, and those who won't. Optimism may fade, but for those who stick it out, the possibilities are endless.

In April 2010 Match.com released an online dating survey in three categories, a Marriage Survey, an Online Dating Survey, and a General Survey. The Marriage Survey participated by 7000 US citizens aged 18 and older, and married within the past five years revealed that, "In the last year, more than twice as many marriages occurred between people who met on an online dating site than met in bars, at clubs, and other social events combined."

Does this mean cupid has a cyberspace arrow pointed towards you? With an abundance of online dating sites, and mobile applications for phones, finding the right connection is a matter of time and diligence. Making social contact means coming to terms with how honest you are in your profile. After all, finding the ideal mate online is exciting, but being disenchanted after a face to face tryst is not.

Choosing dating websites

While research is knowledge, getting other opinions is wise. How far do you want to go in your search? Some online dating sites are free, and some charge for a membership. The key to remember is that you get what you pay for. There are numerous sites to choose from, all depending on what you are looking for. A comparison chart of the Top Ten Online Dating Sites won't help you decide what you want, but it will give you access to reviews and insight.

Is marriage on your agenda, or are you simply looking to date? Would you prefer someone in uniform, is a millionaire romance in your sights, or are you searching for a particular type of relationship? Some dating sites cater specifically to seniors, various religions, diverse cultures, gays, and nationalities. Online daters can even choose from a particular geographical area.

Online dating safety

When venturing into the world of online dating there are some precautions to follow. Remember your profile will be there for all to see, so be choosy when selecting an online dating website. Before registering, go over the site's privacy policy in detail. Does the website supply your information to third parties? Can you remain anonymous?The website Online Dating Magazine offers tips for Online Dating Safety. If you have any doubts this could signal a red flag. To be safe move on to another daring website.

Some states are developing legislation to protect online daters. States such as New Jersey have enacted the Internet Dating Safety Act. Computer based dating is not just subjected to the United States. There are numerous online international romance connections. When pursuing an international relationship, always scrutinize the content of the person you are corresponding with. The Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. State Department has warnings for Internet Dating and Romance Scams.

Following guidelines and being optimistic can open Internet doors for the online dater. Although challenging, finding what you are looking for is a matter of asking yourself what you want. Navigating through your own profile with honesty and confidence may find you on the right course to make that online connection.

Author Bio—Becky Jimenes is a teacher and freelance writer at research papers writing help service. She grew up in Orlando, Florida.