If you’re just stepping into the online dating world, welcome!
Getting started can feel a little overwhelming—so many apps, profiles, and endless swipes.
But if you’re looking for real connections, not just quick flings or digital pen pals, I’ve got you covered.
Here are seven beginner-friendly tips to help you navigate the online dating scene like a pro and actually enjoy the process along the way.
Choose the Right Dating App for Your Goals
Not all dating apps are built the same. Some are more for casual encounters, while others cater to people looking for serious relationships.
Tinder, for instance, has a huge user base of around 75 million monthly active users, but it’s generally known for a more casual vibe. Meanwhile, apps like Hinge and Bumble attract a crowd interested in long-term connections, with Hinge even marketing itself as the “dating app designed to be deleted.” So, think about your goals and go for an app that matches them.
- Hinge is all about helping people find lasting connections, with prompts that let you share more than just a selfie.
- Bumble puts women in control of starting the conversation, which can be great for creating a positive vibe.
- eHarmony uses a deep-dive personality test for those seeking compatibility.
Picking an app that fits your dating goals can really set you up for success.
Craft a Profile That’s Honest and Memorable
Your profile is like your first impression—it should show people who you are without any gimmicks. Stats show that profiles with specific, engaging details can get up to 30% more matches than those that are vague or overly generic. Aim to be real and relatable, and focus on what makes you you.
Tips for a Strong Profile:
- Mention your hobbies and interests: “Big fan of weekend hikes and brunches with good coffee.”
- Be clear about what you’re looking for: Don’t be afraid to say you’re interested in something serious if that’s your goal.
- Add a touch of humour or personality if that’s your style. For example, “Award-winning binge-watcher and slightly below-average cook.”
Avoid:
- Boring, generic phrases like “I like to have fun” or “I’m laid-back.”
- Exaggerating your interests to seem impressive. Authenticity is more attractive.
The Power of Photos: Keep It Real
Let’s be honest—photos are the first thing people look at, so make sure yours actually show who you are. Data from dating apps shows that profiles with clear, genuine photos get way more engagement.
What Works:
- A clear, friendly headshot: Smiling and eye contact go a long way.
- A full-body shot: People like to see the real you.
- Lifestyle shots: Show what you love doing, whether it’s hiking, cooking, or playing with your dog.
What to Skip:
- Group photos as your main pic—it’s hard to tell who you are.
- Heavily filtered or edited photos. Filters can be fun, but they can also be a little misleading.
The idea is to be real but put your best foot forward.
Make a Lasting Impression with a Genuine Message
Avoid the one-word “Hey” or “What’s up?” messages. Starting conversations with something thoughtful can help you stand out. Hinge’s data suggests that people who reference something specific in a person’s profile are more likely to get a response.
Good Conversation Starters:
- “I saw you’re into rock climbing! Got any favorite spots?”
- “Your dog looks adorable! What breed is it?”
These types of openers show you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them beyond just looks.
Stay Patient and Positive: Finding a Match Takes Time
Online dating can test your patience, and it’s easy to feel frustrated when things don’t work out right away. In fact, Pew Research found that 60% of online daters experience some level of frustration at some point. But remember, it’s a numbers game, and not every match will lead to a lasting connection.
How to Keep Your Spirits Up:
- Set realistic expectations: Not every conversation will turn into a love story, and that’s perfectly fine.
- Celebrate the small wins: A good chat or a shared laugh is progress, even if it doesn’t lead to a date.
- Take breaks when needed: It’s okay to step back if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Keeping things positive can make the experience a lot more enjoyable and keep you moving forward.
Know the Red Flags: Keep an Eye Out for Warning Signs
While there are plenty of genuine people on dating apps, there are also some bad apples. A 2021 survey found that 35% of people had been “catfished”—when someone pretends to be someone they’re not. Spotting these signs early can help you stay safe.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Vague or evasive answers: If they’re dodging questions, something might be off.
- Pushing to meet up immediately: Real connections often take time to build.
- Inconsistent stories: If details keep changing, trust your gut.
Trust yourself, and don’t be afraid to move on if something doesn’t feel right.
From Chat to IRL: Taking the Next Step Offline
Eventually, the goal of online dating is to meet in real life, but moving to that stage can feel intimidating. When you’re ready, suggest a quick video or phone call first. According to Bumble’s research, video chats can help reduce first-date jitters by giving you a feel for someone before meeting.
How to Suggest It Smoothly:
- Try saying, “I’ve really enjoyed chatting—would you be up for a quick call or video chat?”
- When planning to meet, choose a public place and let a friend know where you’ll be.
Going from digital to real-life dating is a big step, but it’s an essential part of finding a true connection.
Wrapping It Up
Jumping into online dating can feel like a leap, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right mindset and a few savvy strategies, you’ll be set to find meaningful connections that go beyond the screen. Pick an app that matches your goals, stay true to yourself, and remember—dating is a journey, not a race. Enjoy the process, take things one step at a time, and keep an open heart. Good luck out there!