Does online dating actually work?

According to Social Media Week, online dating is now the second most popular way to meet a new love interest – the only thing more common is being introduced by mutual friends. We take a look at whether it really works, what’s actually involved and what might hold you back.

So I’ve set up my profile. What’s next?

Get clicking. Waiting for people to contact you first is a mistake – this is a dance and it takes two to tango. The best thing about online dating is that you rarely know the pain of rejection, because most of the time you’ll have no interaction at all with those who aren’t interested in you. You won’t even know who’s not impressed by your profile or photos. Search for the traits you desire yourself, browse some photos and get active. Also, get ready. You’ve opened a very exciting door.

What if I only meet strange people?

You might have heard and read about other people’s online dating horror stories and already be assuming the worst. The truth is that there are bad spellers, utter bores, idiots and perverts everywhere but when you put your online profile up, you’ll start to see them even more. The trick is not to let that put you off, but to be very discerning about who you let into your life. Be quick on the delete button. Tell yourself you’ll meet some wonderful people and you will.

Find out how to say you just aren't interested

Does it really work?

If you mean, ‘Will online dating actually help you find everlasting love?’ it’s really about your attitude. Your soul mate isn’t going to fall into your lap if you give up after a couple of bad dates.

The great thing about online dating over 50 is that you can learn about people from the comfort of your own home by scanning profiles, helping to narrow your search immeasurably. In filling out your profile with as much information as possible you greatly increase your chances of inviting the perfect match into your life.

I’ve been online dating a while and I haven’t met anyone decent

We all know someone in this position, and everyone feels this way at some stage however you choose to date. As always, a lot comes down to your attitude. After a bad date, do you sit down and say: “There's no one out there for me”, or do you think: “What can I do to improve my odds in this pool?” 

If you’re not having much luck, consider re-writing your profile to reflect a more authentic you. Upload some different photos or simply widen your search to include some people you wouldn’t usually think would be your match. Remember what matters most isn’t a list of redeeming qualities on a screen. It’s how you interact in person. Give people a chance and you might surprise yourself.

Read our guide to creating a winning online dating profile

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