"Twenty million people are dating online," says Bela Gandhi of the Smart Dating Academy, "I have so many clients who are in super-serious relationships that they found online."
Online dating, it's not just for youngsters anymore. A growing number of boomers are using Internet dating services. Relationship expert Janie Lacy stopped by Good Day to show how to make the most of them without emptying your wallet just to find Mr. or Mrs. Right.
Photo
First, pick a great photo. Be sure the photo is current, in focus and you are at the center. Pick a photo that has some uniqueness or tells something about who you are. Maybe you’re dressed for fishing or in front of some breath-taking scenery. Choose something besides the standard shot that looks like it’s straight from a glamour shoot. And be sure to choose a photo that shows off your smile!
Title
Think of this as your headline. What would make YOU want to read about this person? Use something catchy or funny. Highlight something quirky about yourself. If you’re not feeling creative, borrow from someone else – like "No great genius has ever existed without some touch of madness" – Aristotle.
Be Honest
Be honest about who you are, and show yourself in the best light. That is, besides using honesty in speech, also make sure you use a fairly recent picture of yourself, and not one that shows you twenty or even ten years younger if you try finding a date online. Even if it's not intentional, you will be viewed as dishonest.
Update Your Appearance
Before you start dating, make yourself look appealing. Looks aren't everything, but we all know that they do matter, and that first impressions have the highest impact.
Eat right and exercise -- you'll look and feel better, and therefore, be more appealing. Update your wardrobe--stylish, not fancy. It doesn't cost much to look like you're living in this decade. Have a "natural" picture taken of you, either by a friend, or neighbor. Natural looking photos are popular these days.
Take Your Time
It can happen fairly quickly to feel comfortable with someone after a few exchanges of emails or chats. However, when you are patient it can save you time and money by getting to know a potential date better before taking them out on date. There are other ways to have face time before actually meeting in person such as Skype or video chat in order to see if the person is a match. You can also see if their picture matches what they really look like and get a better sense of their personality.
Protect Yourself
Don't share your personal information right away, even if they seem really nice. Assert your desire for privacy. Meet in public when you decide to meet someone for the first time, like inside a coffee shop (not in a parking lot).
Spend Moderately
You can initially meet by potentially enjoying free events in your community like festivals, free concerts, or other community events. After that if you decide it is worth a second meeting, you can follow-up with coffee or a picnic lunch.
Tags:
boomers, chats, exchanges of emails, festivals, free concerts, free online dating, internet dating services, love, match, super-serious relationships, your appearance
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